Redefining Surgical Care

Envision a future where world-class surgical care is accessible to every Indian: a patient in Coimbatore receiving cutting-edge Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) without the need to travel hundreds of kilometers or bear the additional costs of seeking treatment in a metropolitan center such as Chennai. This is a reality today!

The rapid advancement and adoption of RAS, a minimally invasive procedure that enhances surgical precision, is transforming healthcare in India, with Tier 2 cities matching the pace and expertise of major metropolitan hubs. PSG Hospital in Coimbatore recently became the first in India to perform 10 robotic surgeries within 24 hours, demonstrating how Tier 2 cities are not just adopting but setting national benchmarks in RAS adoption. 

Bridging the Healthcare Gap with RAS

RAS has undergone significant evolution over the past three decades, shifting from a futuristic concept to a practical tool in operating rooms. Systems like the da Vinci provide surgeons with enhanced precision and control, allowing for minimally invasive procedures that can lead to smaller incisions, reduced pain, and quicker recovery times for patients. Take the example of a 90-year-old patient from small city who underwent robotic surgery for a kidney tumor. The patient experienced minimal blood loss, reduced complications, infections, and readmissions, demonstrating the benefits of RAS for vulnerable populations.

The adoption of RAS in Tier 2 and 3 cities is not only about improving healthcare outcomes but also about bridging the gap between these areas and major urban centers to meet rising healthcare expectations. However, while RAS can positively impact healthcare delivery, its success will depend on sustained investment, effective implementation, and local conditions.

Opportunities for RAS Adoption and Growth

The growing interest in smaller cities presents an exciting opportunity. India conducts around 30 million surgeries annually, with 85% taking place in small and mid-sized hospitals, many located in Tier 2 and 3 cities. These hospitals are now at the forefront of healthcare transformation, with an increasing focus on adopting advanced technologies like RAS to enhance patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

This momentum presents a tremendous opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate - government support through subsidies, grants, and low-interest loans can empower hospitals in smaller cities to invest in RAS systems, driving the next wave of medical innovation. Additionally, public-private partnerships can pool resources and expertise, making advanced healthcare technology more accessible to a wider population.

Financial incentives, while crucial, are just one part of the equation. This opportunity also lies in upgrading infrastructure—modernizing facilities, ensuring reliable power supplies, and establishing technical support systems. These investments bolster RAS adoption and contribute to a more sustainable and advanced healthcare ecosystem in smaller cities. 

Building a Skilled Workforce for RAS

The long-term success of RAS adoption finally hinges on having a skilled and well-trained workforce.  Establishing dedicated training centers in collaboration with medical institutions in larger cities can help facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development. These centers can offer certification programs and professional development courses, ensuring that surgeons in Tier 2 and 3 cities have the expertise to perform robotic-assisted surgeries.

Continuous learning will ensure that surgeons stay updated with the latest advancements in robotic surgery, helping to address the skill gaps that often hinder technological adoption.

A Step Towards Equitable Surgical Care

Creating awareness about the benefits of RAS among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public is key to driving its adoption in smaller cities. Targeted educational campaigns showcasing successful case studies and real-life outcomes can help build demand for RAS in regions where it is not yet widely available.

Engaging with local communities to understand their specific healthcare needs is also important. For instance, patients in some regions may prioritize access to basic healthcare over advanced surgical technologies. Tailoring RAS adoption to align with regional healthcare priorities can make the technology more relevant and appropriate.

As robotic-assisted surgery increasingly reaches smaller cities in India, the opportunity to reshape surgical care is becoming more tangible. While challenges remain, the focus should be on turning those challenges into opportunities. By building the necessary infrastructure, training skilled professionals, and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, we can create an ecosystem where innovative technologies like RAS complement the broader goal of equitable healthcare.

Dr. Bhuvaneswaran JS

Guest Author Director at PSG Hospitals, Coimbatore