On average 62% of the cost in healthcare is borne by the patient themselves. This is a very unique feature that sets the Indian healthcare space apart from the rest of the world. To offer affordability, many startups in the sector are bringing innovative solutions. Amongst the many healthcare segments, preventive healthcare has received considerable attention. It works on the philosophy of reducing the risk of developing disease and the subsequent cost of treating that disease.

One of the most actionable ventures in the field of preventive healthcare is Mapmygenome. Started in 2011 by Anu Acharya, it decodes an individual’s DNA to understand their past, current and future health. A skilled entrepreneur, Acharya had the experience of running Ocimum Bio Solutions. This firm helped scientists in their research. But Mapmygenome plans to lessen the imprecision in diagnostics by healthcare workers and provides the person with actionable solutions to live a healthier life.

This is the first time personal genomics was available for Indians in India. That too under female leadership. The venture has a range of mapping tests like Genomepatri™, CardioCardiomap™, Oncomap™, Gynaecmap™ and Brainmap™. During the pandemic, they launched Genomepatri for COVID-19 testing approved by the Indian Council For Medical Research (ICMR). They were the first private lab to receive approval for COVID-19 testing from the Government of Telangana state.

The venture was nominated  5 Top Innovators for Jio Economic Times Startup Awards and Acharya won the Women Ahead honour in 2015. In June 2018, they received ‘Achiever of the Pride of Telangana’ in the start-up category.

They raised $1.1 million in angel funding round from Rajan Anandan (Google India), Satveer Singh Thakral (Singapore Angel Network), Aarti Grover (CMS Computers) and Arihant Patni (Hive Technologies). The funds will be used to boost the strengths of the company. Do you think with rising awareness in health along with disposable income, more preventive healthcare startups, like Mapmygenome, will enter the scene?