Praxis Global Alliance unveils white paper on advancing healthcare in tier 2 and 3+ India through technology

Praxis Global Alliance, a global management consulting firm, has launched a white paper titled “Disparity to Parity: Advancing Quality, Affordability and Accessibility in Tier 2 and 3+ India through Technology” at the ASSOCHAM Diagnostics Conference in New Delhi. The report was presented in the presence of key members of the honorary advisory committee, including Dr Ravi Gaur, Founder and Director of DRG Path Lab, Dr Avinash Phadke, President and Mentor at Agilus Diagnostics, Dr Rajeev Gautam, Corporate Officer at HORIBA, and Anjan Bose, Founding Secretary General of NATHEALTH and former President of Philips Healthcare and Consumer Lifestyle.

The report outlines the potential for technology to play a key role in addressing disparities in healthcare delivery. It provides insights into the Indian diagnostics market, which was valued at US$ 15 billion in FY24, and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14 per cent, driven by increasing urbanisation, improved test penetration, and rising health awareness.

A major focus of the report is the disparity between Tier 1 and Tier 2+ cities. It notes that more than 65 per cent of diagnostic laboratories are concentrated in Tier 1 and 2 cities, leaving Tier 2+ cities facing significant challenges. The report suggests that technology-driven solutions could offer vast opportunities to bridge the gap in these underserved areas.

The white paper examines key technological trends, including artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, smart labs, genetic testing, mHealth, telemedicine, mobile diagnostics, and smart wearables, which have the potential to improve access to quality healthcare and create a more equitable healthcare system.

Tier 1 cities, home to only 9 per cent of the population, contribute approximately 37 per cent to the GDP. In contrast, more than 540 urban centres are classified as Tier 2 and Tier 3+ cities. The report highlights that Tier 3+ cities are expected to accommodate an additional 46 million people by 2030, further underscoring the need for investment in healthcare infrastructure in these areas.

Speaking at the launch, Aryaman Tandon, Managing Partner for Healthcare at Praxis Global Alliance, said, “The launch of this white paper comes at a time when India’s healthcare ecosystem is undergoing rapid transformation. With government initiatives, rising health awareness, and an increasing focus on preventive care, the role of diagnostics in improving health outcomes has never been more critical.”

The report calls for stakeholders to align on a shared vision and make bold investments in technology and innovation. It advocates for a healthcare system that addresses existing disparities while setting the foundation for a more equitable future, particularly in Tier 2 and 3+ cities. “Together, we can build a healthcare system that not only addresses current disparities but also sets the foundation for a healthier, more equitable future for all, particularly in the rapidly growing Tier 2 and 3+ cities,” Tandon added.