A clearer picture of India’s diagnostic imaging market

Clearstate’s study in India and SEA provides detailed and granular insights on diagnostic imaging device placement, usage and perceptions.

Clearstate’s tracking of diagnostic imaging devices markets in India reveals that the market reached an estimated USD380 million in 2008. According to Clearstate’s annual tracking of demand trends in 1,150 healthcare facilities across India, ultrasound was the largest diagnostic imaging segment in the country in 2008. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, computed tomography (CT) and radiology (X-ray) follow.

Clearstate’s study found over 40,000 X-ray units installed India, counting conventional, digital, and mobile radiographies, as well as fluoroscopy, mammography and surgical C-arms. There are nearly 40,000 ultrasound systems and more than 2,200 CT units installed, along with approximately 1,300 units of other diagnostic imaging modalities.

Clearstate’s study indicates a clear demand progression towards newer diagnostic imaging technology. Multi-slice CT is now popular, with 30% of CTs installed above single and dual slice; and 60% of all MR units installed are above 0.5Tesla magnetic strength. There is increasing trend in digitising X-ray, particularly using computed radiography solutions that are cheaper than fully digital radiography systems. Device distribution roughly follows hospital concentrations, with key metro cities accounting for the lion’s share of the installed base.