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TRICOG AND ASTRAZENECA INDIA FORM A HEALTHTECH PARTNERSHIP

June 23, 2023

Project HeartBeat leverages AI to interpret ECGs and direct patients to the nearest Cath Labs or fibrinolysis centers for timely diagnosis and treatment of heart attacks

AstraZeneca India and health-tech startup Tricog have collaborated on Project HeartBeat, an initiative aimed at improving heart attack diagnosis and reducing mortality rates. The program utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) for the interpretation of electrocardiograms (ECGs) to guide patients to the nearest Cath Labs or fibrinolysis centers for timely treatment.

Focusing on addressing the unmet needs of early diagnosis and intervention for individuals at risk of heart attacks, Project HeartBeat has been implemented in Tier I and II cities in India. To date, the program has impacted over 13,000 patients. Those identified with abnormal ECGs have been referred to respective tertiary care hospitals for further treatment. The initiative also aims to enhance the skills of physicians and technicians at primary and secondary care centers, contributing to a more comprehensive approach to cardiac care.

Gagan Singh Bedi, MD of AstraZeneca India, highlighted the importance of providing early diagnosis and treatment facilities for heart attacks in rural areas where modern healthcare is less accessible. The program aims to achieve early and accurate diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) patients, minimize the time between reaching medical intervention (door to balloon/needle time), and ensure essential drugs are available at primary care centers.

Currently, there are eight major hubs established under Project HeartBeat equipped to treat heart attack patients. These hubs include Sanjeevan Medical Center in Karad, Maharashtra; Metro Heart Hospital in Faridabad, Delhi-NCR; Spandan Hospital in Bhopal; CKS Hospital in Jaipur; Lifeline Hospital in Thane, Maharashtra; and BKL Walawalkar Rural Medical College in Kasarwadi, Maharashtra.

By leveraging AI and advanced technology, Project HeartBeat aims to improve heart attack diagnosis and treatment, particularly in underserved areas. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality rates associated with heart attacks. Through this collaborative effort between AstraZeneca India and Tricog, the program seeks to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals at risk of heart disease.

Project HeartBeat not only focuses on improving patient care but also emphasizes the importance of upskilling healthcare professionals in primary and secondary care centers. By enhancing their knowledge and expertise, the program aims to create a network of well-trained healthcare providers who can deliver quality cardiac care to patients in need.

Tricog CEO Charit Bograj emphasized the significant burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in India. He cited data from the Indian Council of Medical Research, which reveals that in over half of heart attack cases, it takes more than six hours to reach a hospital. Tragically, this delay in diagnosis and treatment often leads to the loss of lives.

The collaboration between AstraZeneca India, a leading biopharmaceutical company, and Tricog, a healthtech startup specializing in cardiac care, combines their respective expertise and resources to address the critical challenge of heart disease diagnosis and treatment. Through the successful implementation of Project Heart Beat, the organizations are making significant strides in improving cardiac care, ultimately saving lives and improving the overall cardiovascular health of the population.