India Emerges as One of Asia-Pacific's Most AI-Ready Healthcare Markets: Report
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Nearly 78% of Indian consumers reported using GenAI to understand diagnoses and treatment options better, while 73% said they use the technology to prepare for medical appointments.
India has emerged as one of the Asia-Pacific region's most AI-ready healthcare markets, according to Bain & Company's 2026 Asia-Pacific Front Line of Healthcare Report.
The study has found that Indian consumers are embracing AI-powered healthcare tools at one of the highest rates in the region, even as healthcare providers continue to face mounting pressure from rising patient expectations, fragmented care delivery, and workforce shortages.
The report, based on responses from 6,300 consumers across nine Asia-Pacific markets and 600 doctors, shows that India stands out for its strong adoption of generative AI in healthcare.
Nearly 78% of Indian consumers reported using GenAI to understand diagnoses and treatment options better, while 73% said they use the technology to prepare for medical appointments. Another 72% rely on AI tools to help navigate the healthcare system.
Beyond AI adoption, Indian consumers are also placing greater emphasis on convenience and personalised healthcare services. According to the report, 88% expect more convenient healthcare experiences, nearly 80% want doctors to be accessible through phone calls or messaging platforms, and 93% prefer a single point of coordination throughout their healthcare journey.
Despite these expectations, affordability and accessibility remain major concerns. High treatment costs were identified as the biggest challenge by 43% of respondents, followed by long waiting times at healthcare facilities (42%) and delays in securing appointments (30%).
The report also found that over 45% of consumers struggle to navigate the healthcare system, while 62% often consult multiple healthcare providers before receiving an accurate diagnosis or treatment plan.
Moreover, nearly 59% prefer in-person clinics as the primary point for coordinating their care, with primary care physicians and hospitals remaining the most trusted healthcare providers.
Meanwhile, telehealth continues to serve mainly as a complementary service for non-acute medical needs rather than replacing physical consultations.
The report also identifies younger consumers as a major driver of digital healthcare adoption. Around 66% of Gen Z respondents reported using online pharmacies and engaging more actively with AI-enabled healthcare services than older generations.
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