Aayush Rai: Revolutionizing Healthcare with Inito’s Innovative Medical Devices

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, health consciousness has taken center stage, driving the demand for innovative health monitoring solutions. Addressing this need is Inito, a Bengaluru-based medical device startup founded in 2015 by Aayush Rai and Varun AV, both alumni of prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT). Inito’s all-in-one medical device allows users to conduct a multitude of diagnostic tests at home, offering a timely and convenient solution in the era of social distancing.

In an exclusive conversation with Forbes India, Aayush Rai, the co-founder of Inito, sheds light on the surge in demand for health monitoring devices amid the pandemic. Rai emphasizes that lifestyle diseases requiring continuous monitoring, such as diabetes, cholesterol, thyroid issues, and fertility concerns, have become a focal point for individuals prioritizing their well-being. The pandemic has amplified the need for home-based diagnostic solutions, leading to a remarkable 30 percent increase in the number of tests taken per user.

At the heart of Inito’s offerings is a ground-breaking technology that consolidates multiple diagnostic tests into a single device. The device, priced at Rs 3,199, enables users to conduct a diverse range of tests by simply changing the test strips and using the associated mobile application. Inito’s first product, a fertility hormone test for couples aiming to conceive, exemplifies the device’s efficacy. By measuring two hormones instead of one, Inito’s test provides a more comprehensive understanding of the fertile window, distinguishing it from other ovulation kits in the market.

The onset of the Covid-19 lockdown posed logistical challenges for Inito, affecting its ability to ship products for the initial 35-40 days. However, being a medical devices manufacturing company, Inito eventually received permission to resume operations. The start-up experienced a surge in sales, registering a two-fold increase in the number of strips sold within two hours of reopening sales. Rai acknowledges the challenges faced in importing certain components due to disruptions in global supply chains.

One of the key challenges Rai discusses is the scarcity of expertise in India, particularly in specialized areas like manufacturing patented optical components. Inito overcame this hurdle by collaborating with international consultants from Germany and Japan, bringing invaluable expertise to Indian vendors. Rai emphasizes that while the perception of ‘made in India’ raw materials may exist, Inito’s products meet global manufacturing standards, holding certifications from the FDA and ISO 13485. Looking ahead, Inito plans to expand its portfolio by introducing tests for Thyroid, Vitamin D, and Hemoglobin A1c, expected to hit the market by mid-next year. The startup is also actively developing solutions related to Covid-19. Rai highlights Inito’s focus on obtaining US FDA validations, with plans to launch its innovative devices in the United States. The strategic shift toward global expansion aligns with Inito’s commitment to providing cutting-edge healthcare solutions on an international scale.

Aayush Rai’s journey as the co-founder of Inito exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience needed to revolutionize healthcare. Inito’s commitment to developing accessible, user-friendly, and accurate diagnostic solutions reflects Rai’s vision for a healthier and more empowered society. As the start-up continues to navigate challenges and explore new frontiers in healthcare technology, Aayush Rai remains at the forefront of transforming the way individuals monitor and manage their health, especially in these unprecedented times.