The Rise of Virtual Healthcare and Telemedicine

Transcript of the start-up story of Healz.ai on “Deccan Chronicle” dated December.

In today's world of online networking, friendships, relationships, and even businesses have become virtual. But would you ever imagine that you'd take advice from a doctor over webcam? Telemedicine has not only become a reality but has also surged in popularity, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as it offers a viable alternative to traditional in-person consultations, ensuring healthcare accessibility for many individuals across various demographics ^[1].

Keeping up with the times, healthcare has embraced a virtual approach, with telemedicine gaining traction worldwide. One of the pioneers in India is a young man named Dhruv Kumar from Coimbatore. An engineer by training, Dhruv's disillusionment with life after graduation pushed him to explore various ventures—from civic service to social entrepreneurship. However, it was a transformative conversation with his cousin, Dr. Madhan Kumar, that inspired them to co-found Healz.ai.

“One of my aims is to connect people,” Dhruv shares. His tech team, consisting of Marshal, Vaibhav, and Murugan, began designing software to facilitate connections between doctors and patients in cyberspace. Telemedicine, as outlined by recent findings, encompasses a range of technologies that enhance the management of illnesses and promote wellness, playing a crucial role in modern healthcare ^[3]. What started as a novice start-up in 2010 evolved into a user-friendly and efficient platform by early 2012. They visited numerous hospitals to encourage doctors to join them. Today, they have 150 doctors collaborating across India,” Dhruv explains.

Their primary goal was simple: to help patients. Dhruv mentions a key concern was whether senior doctors and patients would be tech-savvy enough to navigate the interface. “But they were! People quickly realized the concept eliminated distance barriers and allowed them to stay connected with their family doctors or trusted experts. The ability to conduct multiple conferencing for up to six people ensures that family members remain involved in the patient's care, which is essential as studies indicate that patient involvement can significantly improve health outcomes ^[2].” Besides online consultations, Healz.ai also offers the option to book appointments for in-person visits to hospitals or clinics, catering to a diverse range of patient preferences and needs.

If you're curious about how virtual healthcare can benefit you, consider trying our online doctor consultation service. Whether you want to chat with a doctor or explore options with an AI doctor, Healz.ai provides a seamless way to engage with healthcare professionals online. This digital approach not only enhances convenience but also addresses the growing demand for accessible healthcare solutions ^[5].