There are many posts on social media showing that there is one doctor for every 834 people. But here’s the catch: that includes AYUSH practitioners. When we count only allopathic doctors, the ratio drops sharply to one for every 1,366 Indians.

In this episode, Dr Vikram Venkateswaran unpacks what this means for India’s healthcare system, explores which states are leading and lagging, and examines the real-world impact on access to quality care. From the policy gap to the human story behind the numbers, this conversation dives deep into why the doctor shortage is one of India’s silent health crises — and what needs to change.

🎧 Tune in to understand the numbers behind the headlines — and the urgent need to strengthen our medical workforce for a healthier India.

Listen to the earlier podcasts

Digital Transformation in Hospitals: Driving Growth https://open.spotify.com/episode/62uvkThxbunmnvJQJSxSBw?si=b168f4f48a80419f

From Founders to Funders: Rethinking Hospitals and Healthcare Supply Chain - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3a9YqYxtw9UjI8MPesCGzb?si=a28805c164714779

In this episode of Healthcare India Podcast, Dr Vikram Venkateswaran speaks with Sudeep Dey, a marathoner and healthcare technology leader, on how fitness, leadership, and digital transformation intersect in India’s evolving healthcare ecosystem. From AI in hospitals to the changing role of the CIO, Sudeep shares insights on building resilient, data-driven healthcare systems for 2030 and beyond.

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s already shaping healthcare delivery, diagnostics, and operations. But here’s the truth: adopting AI isn’t just a technology challenge, it’s a leadership challenge.

In this episode, Vikram Venkateswaran unpacks three key lessons from The AI-Savvy Leader by David De Cremer and explores what they mean for healthcare:

1️⃣ Why leaders must start with purpose, not technology.
2️⃣ How to adopt a humans-plus-AI mindset that empowers clinicians.
3️⃣ The importance of continuous learning and accountability to keep AI safe, effective, and trusted.

The stakes in healthcare are higher than anywhere else—patient lives and public trust. This episode offers a roadmap for leaders who want to move beyond hype and ensure AI truly serves patients, clinicians, and systems.

👉 If you’re a healthcare leader looking to make sense of AI and its real-world impact, this one’s for you.