Big Tech and Pharma Accelerate AI in Healthcare: Thailand’s HDmall Digitizes Fragmented Industry
Introduction
The healthcare industry is witnessing a rapid transformation, fueled by the convergence of technology and data. Big tech giants and pharmaceutical companies are spearheading this revolution by investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications in healthcare. This article explores the recent developments in AI-driven healthcare innovation, highlighting the key role played by Thailand-based healthcare startup HDmall.
Big Tech-Pharma Partnerships Drive AI Adoption
Amazon Web Services (AWS) and General Catalyst have joined forces to expedite the development and deployment of healthcare AI tools. Similarly, GE Healthcare has partnered with AWS to create generative AI for medical applications by 2024.
HDmall: Digitizing Southeast Asia’s Fragmented Healthcare Landscape
HDmall, a Thailand-based healthcare startup, has established a marketplace to connect patients with medical providers, streamline healthcare services, and empower users to make informed decisions. HDmall offers a comprehensive range of services, including:
- Provider Discovery: Users can easily find hospitals, clinics, and specific surgeries and health check-ups.
- Cost Transparency: HDmall aggregates services to provide cost comparisons and reduce expenses.
- Flexible Payment Options: Installment payment options enhance affordability for patients.
Investment Fuels AI Enhancements
HDmall has recently secured $7.8 million in equity funding to enhance its marketplace and invest in AI technology. This funding brings their total funding to $18 million. The latest investment includes participation from MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme), marking their first investment in a healthtech startup in Asia Pacific.
Generative AI Transforms Customer Interactions
In 2024, HDmall launched Jib AI, a chatbot powered by advanced language models. Jib AI has been trained on healthcare data and provides instant, high-quality responses to customer inquiries. This AI-driven solution has automated nearly 60% of customer interactions, freeing up healthcare professionals to focus on patient care.
Future Plans: Expanding Partnerships and AI Capabilities
Over the next year, HDmall aims to enhance Jib AI’s capabilities, including order processing, assisted checkouts, and medical information retrieval. They also plan to expand their network of external partners, focusing on insurance, pharmaceutical, and employer partnerships.
Southeast Asia’s Unique Healthcare Landscape: A ‘B2C2B Strategy’
HDmall’s approach in Southeast Asia is unique. Unlike telehealth-focused startups in the region, HDmall operates as a "B2C2B" marketplace. This strategy leverages their existing consumer base to transition into healthcare provider partnerships.
A Mix of Amazon One Medical and Chinese Healthcare Platforms
HDmall positions itself as a hybrid of Amazon One Medical (US), Chinese outpatient healthcare platforms like JD Health, and Indian inpatient healthcare platform Pristyn Care. In Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, where there is no established family doctor system, patients typically go straight to hospitals or clinics. HDmall’s platform empowers individuals to access healthcare services, compare costs, and make informed decisions.
Conclusion
The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, driven by the adoption of AI and the convergence of technology and data. Big tech companies and pharmaceutical giants are playing a pivotal role in accelerating this transformation. HDmall, a Thailand-based healthcare startup, is a prime example of this trend. By digitizing the fragmented Southeast Asian healthcare landscape and leveraging AI to enhance customer interactions, HDmall is empowering patients and transforming the way healthcare is delivered in the region.
