Prayagraj Introduces Smart Digital Clinic with Affordable Video Consultations
A groundbreaking smart digital clinic has been launched in the Kaudihar block of Prayagraj, offering video-based medical consultations at an incredibly low rate of just Rs 10 per minute. This initiative represents a major advancement in making healthcare more affordable, transparent, and technology-driven for rural communities in Uttar Pradesh.
Innovative Healthcare Model for Rural Access
The facility, established under Ambience Telehealth, a startup incubated at the Incubation Centre of Allahabad University, enables patients to consult qualified doctors through video interactions. This approach eliminates the challenges of long-distance travel, crowded hospital visits, and the associated loss of wages for many rural residents.
Founded by Dr. Varun Tripathi, MD, the project aims to create a comprehensive digital healthcare ecosystem that effectively bridges the gap between urban medical specialists and patients in remote areas.
Features and Services of the Digital Clinic
Inaugurated on February 9, this clinic is the first of its kind in Prayagraj and operates on a payment model inspired by public call offices (PCOs), ensuring simplicity and accessibility. Services are available daily from 7 am to 11 pm, providing 16 hours of operation to accommodate working individuals, elderly patients, and those needing regular follow-up care.
The clinic offers digital access to a wide range of medical specialists, including:
- Physicians
- Surgeons
- Paediatricians
- Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
- Ophthalmologists
In addition to consultations, the centre provides physiotherapy, X-ray, ECG, and pathology services, making it a holistic healthcare hub.
Technology and Support Behind the Initiative
The system is powered by AAROGYA-X DosEve, a Made-in-India digital healthcare platform that draws inspiration from advanced American and European healthcare technologies. Dr. Tripathi acknowledged AU Vice Chancellor Prof. Sangita Srivastava for her role in promoting entrepreneurship and supporting people-centric healthcare innovations.
Shefali Nandan, coordinator of the incubation centre, highlighted the comprehensive support provided: "The incubation centre offered all necessary infrastructural support, co-working space, networking opportunities, investor connections, marketing platforms, visibility, and mentoring to this new startup."
Development and Impact on the Community
During its incubation phase in 2024, the startup received structured academic and skill-based mentoring, along with yoga sessions and personality development workshops to enhance its team's capabilities. The positive impact is already evident at the grassroots level.
For instance, Rakesh Kesarwani, a resident of Malak Balau village near Kaudihar who suffers from bronchial asthma, can now consult doctors without disrupting his daily work, showcasing the practical benefits of this digital healthcare solution.
