DIGITAL HEALTH QUOTIENT OF INDIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF READINESS, ADOPTION, AND MATURITY ACROSS STAKEHOLDERS

Abstract

Digital health systems are rapidly transforming healthcare delivery through the integration of advanced technologies, data-driven decision-making, and patient-centered service models. This review paper critically examines the evolution, adoption, and readiness of digital health systems with a particular focus on the concept of the Digital Health Quotient (DHQ) as a multidimensional framework for assessing digital health maturity across healthcare stakeholders. The study synthesizes existing literature on digital health governance, technological infrastructure, stakeholder preparedness, and systemic enablers and barriers influencing digital transformation in healthcare systems. By integrating global experiences with the emerging digital health ecosystem in India, the review identifies key conceptual patterns, operational challenges, and implementation gaps affecting digital health performance and sustainability.

The findings highlight significant research gaps, including the absence of an India-specific DHQ measurement framework, limited longitudinal evidence on patient-centered outcomes, and insufficient empirical research on digital transformation within the pharmaceutical sector. The review emphasizes the need for context-sensitive strategies that strengthen digital infrastructure, promote interoperability, and enhance stakeholder digital capacity to support sustainable healthcare delivery. Overall, the study provides a structured analytical perspective to inform policymakers, healthcare institutions, and researchers in developing evidence-based digital health policies and improving healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and equity in emerging economies.