AI is changing healthcare in India. It helps doctors find diseases early and reach people in remote areas. AI tools now support tuberculosis detection, eye disease screening, and other health programmes.
AI App Helps Detect TB Through Cough Sounds
In Kurukshetra, Haryana, a health worker visits homes and records cough sounds using a smartphone app. The app compares each cough with a large database of TB cough samples. It then shows whether a person may have tuberculosis.
If the app flags a person as high risk, the worker shares the details with higher health centres. Doctors then conduct confirmatory tests.
The Cough Against TB app has already screened around 1.62 lakh people. Authorities used it during government health campaigns in Kurukshetra, Mumbai, and Mizoram between 2023 and 2024. The app helped increase TB detection by 13% compared to regular screening methods.
The Indian Council of Medical Research is still validating the tool. Even so, pilot use has started in 91 districts across 17 states.
Artificial Intelligence Improves Healthcare Access in Remote Areas
It helps extend healthcare services to villages and hard-to-reach areas. Community health workers play a key role in this process. ASHA and ANM workers use these tools to screen people at the local level.
The government now uses AI for several health checks, including:
- Tuberculosis
- Breast cancer
- Non-communicable diseases
- Oral health issues
- Skin conditions
These tools allow faster screening and early treatment.
AI-Based X-Ray Tools Strengthen TB Screening
AI-enabled X-ray machines also support TB detection. Health workers can use them during community visits. This method finds cases early instead of waiting for patients to visit hospitals.
Early detection helps reduce TB spread and improves recovery chances.
Technology Helps Prevent Blindness in Diabetic Patients
AI also supports early eye disease detection in people with diabetes. An AI-based fundus camera scans the retina and detects early signs of diabetic retinopathy.
Many patients notice symptoms only after vision loss begins. Early screening can prevent permanent damage. Primary health centres already have fundus cameras. The AI model can connect to these devices easily.
Doctors can then focus on patients who need treatment. This saves time and improves care quality. Patients can get diabetes and eye tests at the same location.
Growing Role of AI in Public Healthcare
AI tools improve early diagnosis and reduce pressure on doctors. They also help reach people who lack easy access to hospitals. As validation and use increase, AI may strengthen India’s public health system.
These technologies offer faster care, better outcomes, and wider access for millions.
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