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Virtual care still does not have a very clear industry definition. As a broad concept, it encompasses all information, communication, and decision support solutions (hardware, software, and services) used for remote interactions between patients and/or healthcare providers /carers with the aim of facilitating or maximizing quality patient care. The study focuses on virtual care solutions for critical care applications. A proposed definition of critical care by WHO includes specialized care of patients whose conditions are life-threatening and who require comprehensive care and constant monitoring, usually in intensive care units (ICUs). Examples are patients with severe respiratory problems requiring endotracheal intubation. In the current era, critical care solutions have moved outside ICU settings and become more of predictive care solutions

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has fuelled a demand for solutions that can help cater to large patient populations remotely. Further, the shortage of intensivists, as estimated by the COMPACCS trial, is expected to increase from 22% in 2020 to 35% by 2030. These, as well as changing reimbursement policies, are some of the key trends that will define the future market for virtual critical care. With rising demand, the competitive intensity in the virtual care space has increased. Both patient monitoring and electronic medical record (EMR) companies are trying to develop their own integrated solutions. Competition is also coming from niche analytics as well as B2C telehealth companies who are expanding their critical care portfolio to offset decreasing margins in low-acuity segments. High first-time installation and implementation cost has been major barrier to the widespread adoption of virtual ICU platforms. This study focuses on virtual care solutions for critical care applications. Solutions include both technology platforms and services used for providing complete virtual care for critical care patients. The study helps to understand the current market dynamics as well future growth opportunities in the space.