Humans of ASAR - Aryan Patil

Like many aspiring technologists, I initially viewed data science as a powerful tool for solving complex problems. However, it wasn’t until I began my work with the Association for Socially Applicable Research in 2021 that I truly understood its potential for driving change in the healthcare sector. ASAR introduced me to the world of public health, where I discovered how critical timely access to healthcare is, particularly in underserved regions. This realization, paired with the urgency brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, fueled my passion for using technology to bridge healthcare gaps.

At ASAR, I worked on projects that focused on global healthcare accessibility, specifically analyzing rural-urban disparities in timely access to healthcare. In one of our most significant initiatives, my team and I conducted a geospatial analysis across 256 territories, mapping how far populations were from healthcare facilities. The findings revealed vast disparities between rural and urban areas, particularly in access times by walking and motorized transport. This work not only exposed deep inequities but also highlighted how data could influence policy changes that address these challenges and improve healthcare outcomes for millions.

In addition to this, I contributed to creating high-resolution access-to-care maps that visually demonstrated the healthcare gaps in various regions. These maps became critical tools for identifying where new healthcare infrastructure was most needed. My role involved everything from data analysis to visualization, offering a comprehensive view of how technology can provide actionable insights for real-world health solutions.

Working at ASAR during the pandemic was a transformative experience. It shifted my perspective on the role of data science, showing me that technology is not just a tool for efficiency but a means to improve lives on a larger scale. ASAR modeled me into someone who understands that data-driven solutions have the potential to reshape healthcare and address systemic inequities.

This journey led me to pursue my current studies at 美国康奈尔大学 - Cornell Tech , where I am now pursuing a Dual MS in Applied Information Science & Information Systems with a concentration in Health Technology. With a foundation in both data science and public health, I am eager to continue applying the lessons I’ve learned to develop innovative solutions that ensure healthcare is accessible to all. Cornell offers me the perfect environment to deepen my expertise, and I am excited to build upon my ASAR experience to make a lasting impact in the healthcare industry.