The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to a change in consumer preferences and priorities as the focus now shifts towards the use of technology and contact-less healthcare, a report by consultancy services firm Deloitte India said. Home healthcare has taken prominence as consumer receptiveness towards out-of-hospital, at-home services across the care continuum – consultation, diagnostics, and in-patient care – has shot up, it added. The demand for telemedicine services is expected to continue, driven by an increase in consumer preference for an efficient consultation setting that eliminates commute and waiting time, it added. Deloitte India Partner Anupama Joshi said the report lists the opportunities and challenges for the healthcare sector in managing the shift in consumer preferences. “We believe this will help organisations in the healthcare ecosystem to create better business strategies, collaborate with startups, and continue to thrive post COVID-19 by exploring new settings and delivery channels across the continuum of care,” she added.

(Moneycontrol)