Karna D. Shinde
1. Starting off with your journey as an entrepreneur then your idea of/role can portable MRI play in addressing the challenge of limited healthcare infrastructure in densely populated urban centers of India?
As an entrepreneur, I have always been drawn to revolutionary and game-changing technologies. My dream of being associated with disruptive innovators like Apple, Google and Amazon was realized when I came across a promising start-up in the United States in 2018 - a company developing a pioneering portable MRI technology.
I always wanted to be part of transformative technologies that could truly make a difference, when I discovered this portable MRI company, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up.
I'm an Indian-origin lawyer who has turned into a serial strategic angel investor and advisor in the US startup ecosystem and saw the immense potential of this portable MRI technology, especially for addressing the challenges of limited healthcare infrastructure in India's densely populated urban centers.
Other portable MRI machines only offer imaging capabilities, but the one I invested in is truly unique - it not only provides imaging, but also enables live interventions, screening and treatments. This makes it unequivocally a game-changing solution for the Indian healthcare landscape."
2. How are you actively pursuing the introduction and adoption of portable MRI technology within the healthcare landscape of India?
Since investing in the company in 2018, I have witnessed its rapid growth and success. The portable MRI system received USFDA certification and has sold over 130 units in the US, generating more than $85 million in sales in the past two years alone.
Now, as a strategic investor and advisor, I'm actively pursuing the introduction and adoption of this transformative technology in India. I have leveraged my deep roots in the Indian healthcare ecosystem to help the company raise funds from renowned Indian investors and establish a strong presence in the country.
The portable MRI technology is a perfect fit for the Indian environment. It's transportable, can be powered by a regular electrical outlet and doesn't require expensive infrastructure or large spaces like traditional MRI machines. This makes it incredibly affordable and accessible.
3. What challenges need to be addressed to ensure the widespread adoption and effective utilization of portable MRI technology across different healthcare facilities and regions in India?
I firmly believe that the portability and cost-effectiveness of this MRI technology can revolutionize healthcare access in India, particularly in underserved and remote areas. In India, it takes a long time to get an appointment for an MRI and private hospital charges are often beyond the means of the economically disadvantaged. This portable MRI solution can help bridge that gap and bring advanced capabilities to every corner of the country.
One of the key advantages of the portable MRI technology is its ability to perform live interventions, such as precision-guided prostate cancer treatment. Prostate cancer is the second most prevalent cancer affecting men worldwide. Current treatment methods often result in the removal of too much or too little tissue, impacting the patient's quality of life. The portable MRI's live intervention capabilities allow for the precise removal of only the cancerous tissue, addressing this critical need.
4. As a strategic investor and advisor, what observations can you share regarding the evolving landscape of the healthcare industry in India, and what opportunities and challenges do you foresee shaping its future trajectory?
The introduction and adoption of portable MRI technology in India can have significant benefits. It can increase accessibility to advanced technology, especially in remote and underserved areas. It can also be a more cost-effective solution, reducing the burden on healthcare infrastructure and making it more affordable for patients. Ultimately, this technology can lead to quicker imaging and better treatment decisions, improving patient outcomes and public health overall.
However, I acknowledge that there are several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the widespread adoption and effective utilization of portable MRI technology across India. These include addressing the cost barriers, ensuring adequate infrastructure and trained personnel; streamlining regulatory approval processes, overcoming data security and privacy concerns.
Collaboration among stakeholders, such as government bodies, healthcare providers, technology developers and funding agencies, will be crucial in addressing these challenges. Together, we need to invest in research and development, provide regulatory support, offer training and education; encourage public-private partnerships to drive the adoption of this transformative technology.
Portable MRI technology is not just an imaging tool; it's a beacon of hope and progress for millions of individuals in India seeking quality healthcare solutions. My vision is to be part of a truly groundbreaking and inspirational change that can improve healthcare access and outcomes for all.
As a strategic investor and advisor, I'm committed to leveraging my expertise and resources to revolutionize the healthcare landscape in India. I truly believe that the adoption of portable MRI technology is poised to transform the way healthcare is delivered, bringing cutting-edge technologies and treatments to even the most un
