Accelerating the implementation of digital pathology in India

Digital pathology (DP), which utilizes whole-slide imaging (WSI), adds value to traditional pathology by enabling high-resolution imaging, remote diagnostics, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted analysis. Despite its potential, DP adoption in resource-constrained settings, such as India, remains limited. A significant gap exists in understanding the diverse applications of DP, adoption barriers, and cost-effective implementation strategies specific to India's healthcare landscape. Hence, this narrative review explores opportunities for DP application in India, including primary diagnosis, second opinion, telepathology, education, frozen section analysis, AI-assisted diagnostics, data management, and quality assurance. It also examines the hurdles toward widespread adoption, including infrastructure and information technology limitations, high costs, and data security concerns. Limited awareness and apprehensions about job displacement further prevent DP adoption. Addressing these challenges requires a strategic approach, including innovative revenue-generating strategies, targeted training programs, robust data security, and development of high-quality datasets. Further, collaboration among pathologists, healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology developers is essential. With structured implementation and targeted investments, DP can potentially revolutionize pathology services in India, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, reducing turnaround times, and expanding access to specialized care, particularly in underserved regions.