The health-tech sector is witnessing incredible growth today. There are innovations in digital health monitoring, telemedicine, medical devices, and health information systems. Every stakeholder in the health-tech ecosystem is aiming to improve access, affordability, and the quality of outcomes for all.
Despite a clear understanding of the need and the presence of a massive talent pool, one of the drawbacks of the health-tech sector in India is the lack of diversity and inclusion. Women make up nearly half of the population in India, but when we look at the leadership roles in the health-tech sector, a widely prevalent imbalance is visible. It is quite unbelievable to see that most of the health tech development decisions are being made without considering the unique healthcare needs of women. This gender disparity not only adversely affects the quality of health-tech innovation, but also significantly suppresses the growth potential of the sector. This is a pressing issue that needs urgent redressal.
At present, women in the health-tech industry are provided with very few growth opportunities. Also, there is a visibly significant bias at the time of hiring or promotion. The lack of women in senior positions makes it difficult for them to break into the leadership suite of organizations. In India, social and cultural factors also act as an impediment for women who dare to tackle the challenges.
This gender disparity is not based on any performance-related issues or due to limitations that women have. Surprisingly it is simply due to stereotypes around women being unsuitable for leadership roles. While the truth is completely contrary to that. In fact, it has been observed that women leaders usually make a positive impact on organizational performance and the ability to innovate. Along with a diversity of perspectives, women business leaders also bring noble problem-solving ideas to the table and display empathy and a collaborative spirit. It is these qualities that make it crucial to encourage, enable, and guide women to play key roles in health-tech organizations. This would not only enable business growth but also lead to greater healthcare innovations for all.
Strategic Empowerment of women leaders
There are many steps that need to be taken to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the health-tech C-suite. At the outset, it is imperative to create policies and take initiatives aimed at gender inclusivity. Mentorship programmes as well as networking opportunities focusing on women can go a long way in providing the much-needed guidance and ecosystem support. Tech companies including growth-stage startups need to introduce skill development and educational programs targeting leadership to enhance women’s capabilities and confidence in shouldering key responsibilities. Existing women leaders in the domain need to support the revolution by pitching for an inclusive and equitable work environment where the contributions of both genders are given equal weightage without discrimination.
Nothing is impossible for women who decide to lead
Despite widespread challenges, women leaders across age groups are defying expectations and making significant contributions to the health-tech revolution in India. Names like Meena Ganesh (Co-Founder and Chairperson, Portea Medical), Meenakshi Singh (Founder, Synapsica Healthcare), and Khushboo Aggarwal (Founder, Zyla Healthcare) shine brightly as examples of highly talented and successful women trailblazers of the Indian health-tech sector. Their achievements inspire future generations of women entrepreneurs and serve as role models for aspiring professionals.
To further empower women in the health-tech field, initiatives such as mentorship programs, leadership development workshops, and gender-inclusive policies are crucial in facilitating their growth and advancement. Creating an environment that fosters collaboration, equal opportunities, and recognition is essential for unleashing the potential of women in the health-tech sector. Mentorship programs provide guidance and support from experienced professionals, while leadership development workshops equip women with the skills and tools needed to overcome industry challenges and assume influential roles. Additionally, implementing gender-inclusive policies helps break down barriers and promotes diversity, ensuring that women can thrive and lead within the health-tech sector. By embracing these initiatives, we can accelerate the progress of women in the health-tech revolution and reshape the industry for the better.
Conclusion
With the health-tech sector growing at an impressive rate of 39% year-on-year, and expected to become a $50 billion sector in India in the next ten years, there is no lack of opportunities. Inclusion and empowerment of women can only make the segment scale to even greater proportions, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive health-tech experience for Indians!
Shared by : Runam Mehta,
HealthCube
