Private hospitals to invest INR 32,500 crore in healthcare infrastructure presenting significant design and build opportunities

Contractors, architects and designers specializing in healthcare infrastructure set to thrive reports Surfaces Reporter (SR)

The Indian healthcare sector is on the brink of a transformative expansion, as private hospital chains gear up to invest approximately INR 32,500 crore in adding over 30,000 beds nationwide within the next four to five years. Having said that, even the government spending on the healthcare industry has improved. However it needs to be noted that the private sector dominates the healthcare sector.

Major metro cities, including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, are positioned as the epicenters of this growth, with substantial bed additions expected in these urban hubs. This surge signifies a heightened demand for healthcare infrastructure design, presenting architects and designers with a myriad of opportunities for engagement in numerous projects.

Ongoing projects in the public and private healthcare sector in India, Source: World Construction Network

Amidst this growth, the industry is undergoing consolidation through mergers and acquisitions, enabling hospital chains to diversify and expand operations. This trend will lead to the redesign and integration of existing facilities, necessitating specialized design services to ensure seamless transitions and upgrades. Hospitals are adopting cost optimization measures, such as centralized procurement and digital tools, influencing design requirements to incorporate cost-effective and technologically advanced solutions.

The sector is anticipated to maintain healthy occupancy rates and witness growth in average revenue per occupied bed, indicating a robust demand for healthcare services. This financial health suggests that hospitals may be inclined to invest in high-quality design and architecture services. While metro cities take the spotlight, there is also expansion into Tier I and Tier II cities, broadening the scope for architects and designers to engage in diverse projects across different regions.

Specific bed additions have been forecasted for various cities, with Delhi-NCR leading, followed by Bengaluru, Haryana, Mumbai, Chennai, Kerala, and other regions. This provides a clear picture of where design services will be in high demand.

With a focus on metro cities, opportunities for redesigning existing facilities due to industry consolidation, and the need for cost-effective and technologically integrated designs, professionals in the field should prepare for an increased demand for their services. Additionally, the expansion into Tier I and Tier II cities suggests that architects and designers will need to adapt to a variety of local contexts and requirements.