The National Health Authority (NHA) has announced an extension of its Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS) under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This extension, which offers incentives of up to Rs. 4 crores, will last until December 31, 2023.
About The Digital Health Incentives Scheme
Launched as part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, the DHIS aims to incentivize hospitals, diagnostic labs, and digital health solution providers that adopt transformative digitization practices. The scheme’s primary goal is to create a digitally inclusive healthcare ecosystem in line with the broader vision of the ABDM.
Eligibility for participation includes health facilities such as hospitals and diagnostic labs and registered Digital Solution Companies within the Health Facility Registry of the ABDM. The financial incentives offered are directly proportionate to the number of digital health records produced and linked to the Ayushman Bharat Health Account numbers of patients.
As of June 2023, over 1,200 health facilities have registered under the DHIS, demonstrating widespread adoption of the scheme.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission Explained
The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission is a national initiative that launched in September 2021. Its aim is to advance the country’s digital health infrastructure. The mission envisages providing digital health IDs to all Indian citizens, thereby enabling hospitals, insurance firms, and individuals to access health records electronically as needed.
One of the principal components of the ABDM is the Unified Health Interface (UHI), intended as an open protocol for various digital health services. The UHI network facilitates a broad array of digital health services between patients and health service providers.
The ABDM also hosts a Sandbox platform for testing technology and products, assisting organizations in becoming Health Information Providers or Users.
Challenges With Digital Healthcare in India
Despite these advancements, there are several hindrances to the full adoption of digital healthcare in India. A significant portion of the country still lacks reliable internet connectivity and the necessary digital infrastructure, making it challenging to access or deliver digital healthcare services in remote and rural areas.
Digital literacy is another critical issue, as many individuals, particularly in older populations in rural areas, may lack the requisite skills to effectively navigate digital healthcare platforms.
Another significant concern is maintaining patient data privacy and security. It’s essential to ensure that sensitive medical information remains confidential and is protected from unauthorized access.
Similarly, telemedicine, while gaining popularity, requires regulatory clarity regarding practice, prescription of medications, and teleconsultation across state lines.
Proposed Solutions for Better Digital Healthcare
Various solutions are proposed to tackle these challenges. One such solution is implementing blockchain technology to securely store and manage electronic health records, thereby ensuring data integrity and interoperability among healthcare providers.
Another measure involves leveraging big data analytics for public health purposes, predicting disease outbreaks, planning resource allocation, and devising targeted interventions more effectively.
In addition, online training and skill development could help healthcare professionals effectively use digital tools. Offering online courses for medical professionals to upskill in areas like telemedicine, data analytics, and AI applications in healthcare can drive digital adoption.
Lastly, comprehensive regulations and guidelines for digital health technologies could ensure patient privacy, data security, and ethical use of digital services and other technologies.
