In the bustling world of startups, where innovation often feels like a race to outdo the next big thing, Patient Planet stands out for its humanity and purpose. Founded by Dr. Arnab Paul, this groundbreaking venture is redefining home healthcare by merging compassion with cutting-edge technology. At its core, Patient Planet addresses a deeply personal problem—ensuring families have access to trusted, professional healthcare services without the stress and confusion often associated with traditional systems.
“Healthcare should adapt to the patient, not the other way around,” says Dr. Arnab Paul, summarizing the guiding vision behind the company. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, an impressive academic background, and a deeply personal motivation, Dr. Arnab Paul is steering Patient Planet toward a future where quality care is accessible to all.
From Personal Struggles to Professional Solutions
Dr. Arnab Paul’s journey began with a Master’s in Biology from Virginia State University, where he was inducted into the prestigious Beta Kappa Chi National Scientific Honor Society. He went on to earn a PhD in Biochemistry from American University, supported by the Hurst Fellowship, and later an MBA in International Healthcare Management from the University of Aberdeen, thanks to a Saltire Scholarship.
However, it was his personal experience that planted the seeds for Patient Planet. Losing his father at a young age, Dr. Arnab Paul watched his mother struggle to navigate the complex healthcare system in India. This memory, coupled with his professional exposure to global healthcare systems, fueled his mission to create a solution that brings compassionate care to people’s doorsteps.
“Seeing my mother’s struggles shaped my resolve,” shares Dr. Arnab Paul. “I wanted to ensure no family feels as helpless as mine did.”
Building a Patient-Centered Solution
Founded in 2015, Patient Planet was born out of Dr. Arnab Paul’s desire to bridge gaps in home healthcare. The startup offers a range of services, including skilled nursing, physiotherapy, post-operative care, and elderly care. What sets it apart is its holistic approach—addressing not just the clinical but also the emotional and practical needs of patients.
For instance, when assisting a 65-year-old recovering from knee surgery, Patient Planet doesn’t stop at physiotherapy. The team considers factors like medication management and even challenges like meal preparation, ensuring comprehensive support.
“By combining clinical expertise with patient insights, we tailor care to individual needs,” explains Dr. Arnab Paul. “It’s about creating a seamless and trustworthy experience.”
The company’s approach reflects a deep understanding of patient needs and goes beyond the transactional model of healthcare delivery. Patient Planet’s services are designed to be both professional and personal, bridging the gap between clinical care and empathetic human connection.
Overcoming Challenges with Empathy and Innovation
Launching a homecare startup in India, where the healthcare industry is often fragmented, came with its own set of hurdles. Gaining trust was a significant challenge in a market flooded with unregulated providers. Ensuring service quality across diverse locations was another pressing issue. Dr. Arnab Paul tackled these problems head-on by implementing rigorous vetting processes, in-house caregiver training, and technology-driven solutions to streamline operations.
Balancing affordability with quality was another obstacle. “The key was finding ways to optimize operations without compromising on care standards,” says Dr. Arnab Paul. By integrating technology, Patient Planet has been able to achieve efficiency while maintaining high-quality care. Their efforts have earned the startup ISO 9001:2015 certification and a spot in the Digital Health Atlas by the WHO, signaling its impact on the global healthcare landscape.
Milestones and the Road Ahead
Patient Planet’s journey is dotted with milestones that reflect both its growth and its potential. Among the most notable achievements is a Memorandum of Understanding with IIT Ropar, which has paved the way for innovation and collaboration in healthcare. The addition of Dr. Taufila Nyamadzabo, a former World Bank Executive Director, to the advisory board has further validated the company’s vision and bolstered its credibility.
Dr. Arnab Paul himself has been recognized globally for his leadership and innovation. As a finalist for the UK Alumni Award in the Business & Innovation category, he has brought international attention to the work being done at Patient Planet. These accolades are a testament to the startup’s ability to combine local relevance with global standards.
But perhaps the most rewarding milestone is the trust of their clients. Dr. Arnab Paul recalls a family that waited months for a specific caregiver to become available, refusing alternatives because of the trust and bond they had built. “That loyalty means everything,” he says. “It’s a reminder of why we do what we do.”
Looking ahead, Patient Planet is gearing up for an ambitious expansion across India and potentially beyond. Plans include launching a homecare app to enhance accessibility and exploring franchise models to scale their services without compromising on quality.
Innovating for a Better Tomorrow
One of the defining characteristics of Patient Planet is its focus on innovation. By leveraging technology, the company has been able to address many of the inefficiencies in traditional healthcare delivery. From scheduling and logistics to caregiver training and feedback mechanisms, technology is at the heart of Patient Planet’s operations.
For example, their planned app will allow patients and families to book services, track care progress, and even access virtual consultations. This integration of digital tools is part of a larger strategy to make healthcare more accessible and transparent.
“We’re not just a service provider; we’re a partner in care,” says Dr. Arnab Paul. “Our goal is to empower families with the tools and resources they need to make informed healthcare decisions.”
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Dr. Arnab Paul has hard-won advice for those embarking on entrepreneurial journeys:
- Start with Passion: Solve a problem you deeply care about. “Your motivation has to come from within,” he says.
- Stay Resilient: “Every founder faces a ‘Noah’s Ark’ phase—when people doubt your vision. Persevere.”
- Build a Team: Surround yourself with skilled, like-minded individuals who share your vision.
- Learn from Failures: View mistakes as stepping stones rather than setbacks. “Success doesn’t come overnight,” he adds. “Stay committed, work hard, and keep learning.”
A Vision Rooted in Empathy
At its heart, Patient Planet is more than a business—it’s a mission inspired by personal loss and sustained by a desire to make healthcare accessible, human, and dignified. Dr. Arnab Paul’s leadership combines professional expertise with personal empathy, creating a company that genuinely cares about the people it serves.
“We’re here to create a societal shift where homecare is seen as an essential part of healthcare,” says Dr. Arnab Paul.
With a commitment to innovation, compassion, and excellence, Patient Planet is poised to redefine healthcare delivery—not just in India, but around the world. Their journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when purpose meets innovation.
Discover More: Visit Patient Planet or connect with Arnab Paul on LinkedIn.
