AI Horizons in Indian Healthcare: A Vision for Transformation and Equity

Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize healthcare delivery in India, offering solutions to address the nation's unique healthcare challenges. This position paper, presented by the Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine, examines the integration of AI in Indian healthcare, exploring its applications across diagnostic imaging, patient care, medical research, rehabilitation, and administrative processes. Notable implementations include AI-driven disease detection systems, telemedicine platforms, and public health surveillance tools, with successful applications in tuberculosis screening, breast cancer detection, and ophthalmological care. While these advancements show promise, significant challenges persist, related to data privacy concerns and interoperability issues, including the need for robust ethical frameworks. The paper highlights key stakeholder collaborations, including government initiatives and international partnerships, which are driving innovation in this space. Based on this analysis, we propose policy recommendations emphasizing research investment, professional training, and regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible AI adoption. Our vision advocates for an approach that balances technological advancement with accessibility and equity in healthcare delivery.