Andhra Pradesh to Implement Statewide Digital Health Records System

The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has announced the statewide implementation of a digital health records system, initially piloted in Kuppam, as part of the 'Sanjeevani' project. The aim is to create health risk profiles for every citizen, thereby improving public health outcomes through technology.

In a recent meeting with a ten-member expert group comprised of national and international specialists—including representatives from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation—Naidu outlined the government's strategy to overhaul the public health sector. The initiative places a strong emphasis on preventive care, shifting the focus from treatment to disease prevention.

Naidu remarked, "The digital health records of all citizens will be ready in one year. By categorising diseases, we aim to alleviate the disease burden through proactive measures." This comprehensive approach is intended to reduce healthcare costs and enhance the overall well-being of the population.

The Chief Minister highlighted the successful Mustabu program, which operates in tribal schools, as a model for improving health outcomes through early intervention and awareness.

Among the expert panel members was former chief scientist of the World Health Organization (WHO), Soumya Swaminathan, who stressed the vital role of nutrition in preventive healthcare. Former Union Health Secretary Arti Ahuja expressed concerns about the rising incidence of dialysis cases among younger populations, attributing this trend to environmental pollution. Yik-Ying Teo from the National University of Singapore spoke on how digital health records, combined with artificial intelligence, could enhance healthcare delivery systems.

Margaret Kruk, a public health professor at Harvard University, praised Andhra Pradesh's successful Hepatitis vaccination programme, which has shown positive results. Srikanth Nadhamuni noted that AI-driven services are becoming increasingly essential to modern public health systems. D. Nageswara Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals, emphasised the necessity for health education and awareness among children.

Archana Vyas, country director for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, confirmed the foundation's commitment to working with the Andhra Pradesh government to fortify health systems, announcing plans to establish a health secretariat for ongoing monitoring. Naidu proposed that the advisory committee convene biannually to assess progress and requested the foundation prepare a detailed action plan based on their recommendations.

The Chief Minister also indicated that Andhra Pradesh would showcase its advancements in technology-driven healthcare at the upcoming Global AI Convention in Mumbai, highlighting the state's commitment to integrating technology into public health initiatives. This ambitious project aims to provide citizens with comprehensive access to their health data and improve the overall efficiency of healthcare services in the region.