The report, titled Global health’s new entrants: Meeting the world’s consumer, shows how new entrants – companies around the globe whose core businesses reside entirely outside of the health space or are expanding into new health roles– are pioneering pathways into virtual healthcare, more affordable and convenient care options, wellness and fitness, and more.

Four key themes are explored in Global health’s new entrants:

The Leapfrog Effect: Why Developing Countries Innovate Faster

Innovations can spring more rapidly from emerging economies than from developed countries. Where urgent needs prevail in a less regulated environment, health solutions offered by disruptive new entrants can take root more quickly.

Virtual Democratisation of Care

As the world pivots ever closer to the ‘virtualisation of care’ - with the bundling of mobile, digital, and wireless — new entrants from sectors including telecom, technology and retail will be well-positioned to offer amazing breakthroughs that help erase healthcare boundaries and enable care anywhere.

Filling Gaps in a Global Consumer Health System

Consumers today want a healthcare experience that mirrors the convenience and transparency of their banking, retail, transportation, and other purchasing experiences. Filling gaps between consumer expectations and the current medical infrastructure provides many opportunities for new entrants to move into global healthcare with fresh ideas and skills.

Path of Least Resistance: Wellness and Fitness

The growing wellness and fitness market, which PwC says likely represents US$1.49 trillion of the total US$9.59 trillion global health industry, offers a more flexible entry for businesses considering ways to shake up healthcare without rubbing against government or traditional providers and the complex regulatory regimes that govern healthcare.