India’s diagnostic imaging market is on a trajectory of significant expansion, fuelled by increasing healthcare investments, the rising burden of chronic diseases and the need for accessible diagnostic solutions.
According to GlobalData, India currently represents around 20 per cent of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) diagnostic imaging devices market in 2024. With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7 per cent, the market is expected to surpass $7 billion by 2033.
Portable Imaging: A Game-Changer in Healthcare
One of the key drivers of this growth is the increasing adoption of portable imaging solutions. These devices are particularly beneficial in underserved and rural regions where traditional imaging infrastructure is limited. Their ability to deliver rapid diagnostics in emergency and trauma situations is transforming healthcare delivery.
“Portable imaging devices are transforming healthcare delivery in India. In emergency and trauma situations, these devices enable rapid on-site diagnostics, reducing the need for patient transfers and enhancing care delivery,” commented an expert from GlobalData.
Technological Advancements Driving Market Growth
Innovations in imaging technology are further accelerating the adoption of portable devices. AI-powered image analysis, miniaturisation, and wireless connectivity are improving accuracy and facilitating real-time data sharing. Notable innovations such as the Butterfly iQ+ handheld ultrasound, Carestream’s Motion Mobile X-ray, and Fujifilm’s lightweight FDR Xair X-ray system illustrate this shift. Additionally, the emergence of portable MRI and CT systems with photon-counting technology and compact MRI magnets is enhancing imaging resolution while reducing radiation exposure.
Challenges Hindering Widespread Adoption
Despite its potential, the widespread adoption of portable imaging in India faces several challenges, including high ownership costs, regulatory hurdles, and limited service infrastructure. The ongoing need for skilled professionals and maintenance further adds to the cost burden.
“To unlock the full potential of portable imaging, it is essential to address regulatory bottlenecks, streamline import processes, and support networks. These steps will be critical to ensure affordability and scale adoption across the country,” noted an expert from GlobalData.
The Future of India’s Diagnostic Imaging Market
Looking ahead, a hybrid diagnostic approach integrating both portable and stationary imaging systems is likely to define India’s future healthcare landscape. While stationary imaging will remain essential for complex procedures, portable solutions will drive efficiency, reduce wait times, and expand access. As awareness of preventive care grows and income levels rise, the demand for portable imaging solutions is set to accelerate, reshaping healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes across India.
India’s diagnostic imaging sector is evolving rapidly, with portable imaging emerging as a game-changer in making diagnostics more accessible. The country’s rural healthcare landscape, which has traditionally suffered from a lack of advanced medical infrastructure, stands to benefit the most from these innovations. While financial and regulatory barriers exist, strategic government interventions and private-sector collaborations could fast-track adoption.
The growth of portable imaging aligns with global healthcare trends emphasising real-time diagnostics and decentralised care. If India can navigate these challenges effectively, it has the potential to become a leader in affordable and accessible imaging solutions in the APAC region.
