Dr. Virender Sangwan

Dr. Virender Sangwan is renowned ophthalmic surgeon and innovator in stem cell therapy for corneal blindness, with global impact through translational research, surgical innovation, and leadership in vision care advancement was interviewed by Dr. Soumya Singh, Creative Editor of InnoHEALTH Magazine.

Ortho-K, or orthokeratology, is gaining popularity as a non-surgical way to temporarily correct vision. From a clinical and scientific standpoint, how exactly does Ortho-K reshape the cornea, and who can benefit most from this technique?

The Ortho-K is suitable for low myopes, and it essentially mechanically reshapes the cornea during sleep, and the effect lasts temporarily during the day. This way, people who prefer not to wear spectacles or contact lenses during the day find this technique helpful for short periods.

Are there any long-term risks or widespread misconceptions about Ortho-K that you feel the public should be more aware of?

The only small risk is infection, and other than that, it is largely a safe technique. People should understand that it is not a permanent vision correction.

Both LASIK and SMILE are laser-based refractive surgeries. Could you explain the core differences between the two, and under what circumstances one might be preferred over the other?

LASIK means Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis: it is a type of laser refractive surgery to reshape the cornea for correction of refractive errors like shortsightedness. The SMILE is a type of laser eye surgery to correct refractive errors, and it is a type of LASIK. The SMILE- Small Incision Lenticule Extraction is a minimally invasive and flapless laser surgery. The LASIK can be done using a blade or a non-touch technique like SMILE. There other type of LASIK like PRK or PTK. The technique is decided based on several factors like corneal topography, thickness of the cornea, degree of refractive error or power to be corrected, patient preference etc.

The concept of bionic eyes sounds like science fiction becoming reality. From your vantage point in translational ophthalmic research, how do these devices function, and what potential do they hold for patients with severe visual impairment?

Let us first understand how the eye perceives light or images. The front part of the eye (the Cornea and Lens) collects light and focuses it onto Retina, which in turn sends a signal to the brain via the Optic Nerve. When there is irreversible damage to the retina (retinitis pigmentosa, retinal degeneration, etc) a bionic eye can be useful to partially restore vision. The bionic eye is also known as a prosthesis designed to restore some degree of sight to individuals with severe visual loss. The device consists of external components like a camera and a processor to capture & transmit visual
information. The Argus II retinal prosthesis system is such an example of a bionic eye that has been used to treat individuals with severe retinitis pigmentosa. It includes a camera and an electrode array implanted on the retina.

With your experience bridging clinical practice and research, how do you see artificial intelligence transforming the early detection and diagnosis of diseases like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma?

The artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical and ophthalmic field is transforming the care, and we are implementing these technologies in our research and patient care quickly. I believe the AI is going to help doctors and patients simplify care and processes.

You’ve spent decades striving to make eye care accessible to underserved populations. What recent advancements in tele-ophthalmology have most effectively extended reach to rural or low-resource communities?

There are few technologies which are helping us to reach the unreachable in rural areas. Yes, using Tele-ophthalmology is one such tool and we are practising it extensively in our daily life. The Dr Shroff’s Charitable Eye Hospital (SCEH) has over 6 secondary center, 125 primary eye care centers in addition tertiary care center in Delhi. We examine over 700,000 patients in OPD, over one million school screenings and perform 78000 surgeries in a year. We have been using technology extensively to make it happen, including tele-ophthalmology and tele-refraction.

Femtosecond laser technology has been a game-changer in both cataract and refractive surgeries. Could you share how this innovation has improved surgical precision and patient outcomes?

The femtosecond laser technology is still evolving and making eye surgery more precise, and not necessarily improved the patient outcome. I think the technology has to improve further to improve patient outcomes yet.

You’ve treated over 800 patients using cultivated limbal stem cells, making it the largest known application of adult stem cell therapy in ophthalmology. What have been the most profound outcomes or challenges from this experience?

I have been using and working with stem cell therapy for corneal blindness from the early 2000s and established for the first time cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET) and then devised new technique of growing stem cells using the eye as “Petri-dish” and regrow damaged corneal outer layer (called as corneal epithelium). This technique is called SLET-simple limbal epithelial transplantation. We don’t need an expensive laboratory for the SLET, and it is a very cost-effective surgery. There has been a profound effect on patients of using these procedures. We have been able to restore vision in some of my patients who have been blind due to chemical injury for 30-40 years.

Translational research has defined much of your career. How do you see the relationship between lab-based discovery and real-world clinical application evolving in the next decade?

Translational research is the foundation of my 30+ years career, and it continues to define my current work. For this purpose, we have established stem cells research laboratory and also SPCORE- Shroff’s Pandorum Centre for Corneal

Regeneration. We also started a PhD program in translational eye research in collaboration with MAHE- Manipal Academy of Higher Education. We have enrolled five PhD students in this program who are solving actual clinical problems faced by our patients. Therefore, the future lies in translational research to improve patient outcomes.

You’ve worked extensively with institutions like LV Prasad Eye Institute and ORBIS International. What insights have you gained about merging innovation with equitable care, especially in resource-limited settings?

I have always worked in not-for-profit organisations throughout my career. Innovation is the key driver for improving access to healthcare for all, as well as for enhancing clinical outcomes through the participation of all stakeholders in an equitable manner. Technological innovations are more relevant in resource-limited settings. Hence, we have started an innovation centre at L V Prasad Eye Institute in 2013, which was inaugurated by Hon’l APJ Abdul Kallam, then president of India. The centre was named as Centre for Innovation and the program “Engineering the Eye”.

The post Restoring Sight: The Technologies and Ideas Transforming Eye Health appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

Healthcare is the backbone of any nation, and ensuring its accessibility to every citizen, especially those in rural areas, is a priority. At the InnoHEALTH Conference 2024, Dr. Brijendra Singh Dhillon, a distinguished expert in hospital administration, shared his insights on improving healthcare infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas. With vast experience in managing one of Haryana’s largest hospitals, Dr. Dhillon sheds light on the current gaps in healthcare and the steps required to bridge them effectively.

About Dr. Brajendra Singh Dhillon

Dr. Dhillon’s impressive career spans decades of service in the medical field. Having completed his MBBS from Rohtak Medical College and MD in Hospital Administration from the All India Institute, he currently holds the position of Senior Professional Head of Hospital Administration at Rohtak Medical College, Haryana. Managing a 2,500-bedded hospital that caters to over 10,000 OPD patients daily and 2,000 emergency cases, his role is crucial in the seamless functioning of one of the largest healthcare institutions in the region.

A Tribute to Dr. V.K. Singh: A Mentor and Visionary

Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Dhillon paid tribute to his mentor, Dr. V.K. Singh, describing him as an intelligent, kind-hearted, and inspirational leader who guided his students with dedication. Dr. Singh’s ability to speak eloquently for hours on any topic and his deep knowledge left a lasting impact on those he mentored. His legacy continues to influence medical professionals like Dr. Dhillon, inspiring them to strive for excellence in healthcare management.

Challenges in Rural Healthcare and the Role of Technology

One of the most pressing concerns in India’s healthcare landscape is the lack of proper medical facilities in rural areas. According to Dr. Dhillon, rural healthcare systems often suffer due to inadequate staffing, lack of medical equipment, and poor infrastructure. He emphasized that strengthening Primary Health Centers (PHCs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs) is essential for reducing the burden on tertiary hospitals.

Key areas for improvement in rural healthcare include:

• Deploying More Healthcare Professionals – Many PHCs lack qualified doctors and nurses, leading to an over-reliance on urban medical centers.
• Upgrading Medical Equipment – Basic diagnostic tools such as X-ray machines, ultrasound devices, and dental chairs should be standard at PHCs.
• Improving Doctor’s Living Quarters – Providing better facilities for healthcare staff in rural areas will encourage professionals to serve in these regions.
• Strengthening Ambulance Services – Efficient emergency transportation can significantly improve maternal health outcomes and trauma care.

Leveraging AI and Technology in Healthcare

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technological advancements can revolutionize healthcare by improving efficiency and patient outcomes. However, integrating these advancements in rural areas remains a challenge due to infrastructure constraints and financial limitations. Dr. Dhillon recommends the following steps to enhance the adoption of technology in healthcare:

• Investing in Telemedicine – Remote consultations can help bridge the gap between urban specialists and rural patients.
• Digital Health Records – Streamlining patient data management can improve diagnosis accuracy and reduce redundancy in treatment.
• AI-Based Diagnostics – AI-driven tools can assist in the early detection of diseases such as diabetes, tuberculosis, and cardiovascular conditions.

Learning from Developed Countries: What India Can Do Better

As a developing country, India has the opportunity to learn from global healthcare models and adapt best practices. Dr. Dhillon believes that the key to improving healthcare lies in honest governance, efficient resource allocation, and transparency in medical funding. He suggests that:

• Strict Monitoring of Healthcare Funds is crucial to ensure that the allocated budget reaches hospitals and is used effectively.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can accelerate healthcare advancements by leveraging private sector expertise and innovation.
• Preventive Healthcare Campaigns must be emphasized to reduce the burden of chronic diseases through awareness and lifestyle interventions.

A Message to Healthcare Professionals and Society

Dr. Dhillon concluded the discussion by emphasizing the importance of empathy in the medical profession. He encouraged healthcare professionals to prioritize patient well-being, serve the underprivileged, and work towards an inclusive healthcare system. His message was clear: A strong, ethical, and service-oriented medical community can transform the nation’s health infrastructure.

Conclusion

The conversation with Dr. Brijendra Singh Dhillon highlights the urgent need for reforms in rural healthcare, the integration of AI-driven solutions, and the importance of ethical governance. With a collaborative effort between the government, medical professionals, and technology innovators, India can move toward a stronger, more efficient, and accessible healthcare system.

By improving healthcare access and addressing key challenges, we can pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future for all.

Composed By

InnoHEALTH magazine digital team

The post Improving Healthcare Access: Challenges, Innovations, and the Path Forward appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare technology, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative force that promises to bridge critical gaps in healthcare delivery, from hospital systems to primary care. Dr. Priyanka Bajaj, a health technology expert at PATH, shares her insights on how AI is reshaping healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes across all levels of care.

Revolutionizing Healthcare Delivery

AI’s integration into healthcare systems is occurring at multiple levels, each addressing specific challenges in the healthcare continuum. At the hospital level, AI is transforming how we utilize electronic health records, enabling healthcare providers to identify high-risk populations, predict potential outbreaks, and optimize patient follow-up care. As Dr. Bajaj explains, the purpose of primary healthcare, as a pillar of universal health coverage, is to provide essential medicines and diagnostic services to the population. In settings where specialist access is limited, AI-enabled technologies are proving particularly valuable, providing first-level screening and clinical decision support that can significantly improve health indicators through early intervention.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps

One of AI’s most significant contributions is its ability to democratize healthcare access. In areas with limited specialist access or sophisticated infrastructure, AI-integrated point-of-care tools have become invaluable for screening large populations and identifying individuals at risk of various conditions. This early intervention capability is particularly crucial for managing both communicable and non-communicable diseases, enabling healthcare providers to reach and treat patients who might otherwise go undiagnosed until their conditions become severe.

Lessons from COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for AI adoption in healthcare, accelerating the development and implementation of innovative solutions. During this unprecedented crisis, AI technologies emerged as crucial tools in the fight against the virus. Healthcare facilities worldwide implemented AI-powered thermal imaging for fever detection, while sophisticated algorithms analyzed chest X-rays to identify COVID-19 pneumonia. Smartphone-based applications utilizing AI to analyze cough sounds helped screen for COVID-19, TB, and COPD. Remote patient monitoring systems with AI-driven decision support enabled healthcare providers to monitor patients safely at home, while robots and drones equipped with AI capabilities assisted in sanitization efforts and medical supply delivery to hard-to-reach areas.

Building a Sustainable AI-Driven Healthcare System

The foundation of sustainable AI implementation in healthcare lies in what Dr. Bajaj calls a “human-centered approach.” This philosophy emphasizes maintaining human oversight while leveraging AI capabilities, ensuring ethical implementation with transparency and accountability, and protecting patient privacy. Success in this area requires robust multisectoral collaboration, adherence to regulatory standards like HIPAA, and a commitment to continuous iteration and improvement of AI systems. The focus remains on enhancing, rather than replacing, human capabilities in healthcare delivery.

Emerging Innovations

The current landscape of AI in healthcare is rich with promising innovations being implemented in primary healthcare settings. Thermal imaging technology enhanced with AI is revolutionizing breast cancer screening, making it more accessible and less invasive. AI-powered cervical cancer screening tools are enabling early detection in areas with limited specialist access. Smart stethoscopes that convert sound to images for cardiorespiratory analysis are transforming how healthcare providers diagnose heart and lung conditions. Perhaps most excitingly, smartphone-based technologies are emerging that can detect conditions like hypertension and arrhythmias, while AI-assisted chest X-ray analysis is accelerating tuberculosis screening in high-burden areas.

Looking Ahead

The future of AI in healthcare holds immense promise, but realizing this potential requires a collaborative approach. Dr. Bajaj emphasizes the importance of breaking down silos between innovators, clinicians, health systems, and communities. The goal is not simply to develop new technologies, but to create solutions that genuinely meet the needs of the health system—solutions that are affordable, safe, and quality-assured.

As healthcare continues to evolve, the focus must remain on ensuring these innovations are accessible, ethical, and truly serve the communities they’re designed to help. “Be a solution provider, not just a technology provider,” Dr. Bajaj concludes, emphasizing that the true measure of success lies not in the sophistication of the technology, but in its ability to improve health outcomes for all populations.

Authors Biography

Dr. Priyanka Bajaj, is a Health Technology Innovations Specialist at PATH, advising on clinical, regulatory, and market access aspects. She leads cross-disciplinary public health projects globally, supports technology scale-up, and has expertise in diagnostics, medical devices, and public health integration.

The post The Future of Healthcare: How AI is Revolutionizing Patient Care appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.