Apollo Hospitals Acquires Cancer Care Startup Onco Amid Shutdown Rumors
In a major development in the Indian healthtech sector, Apollo Hospitals has quietly acquired cancer care startup Onco.com, putting to rest recent rumors about the company’s shutdown. According to sources familiar with the matter who spoke to Inc42, the acquisition was finalized in December 2024, although the financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
The acquisition of Onco marks a strategic move by Apollo Hospitals to strengthen its oncology portfolio and deepen its presence in the digital healthcare space. With the integration of Onco’s platform, Apollo plans to scale its cancer care services, combining the startup’s patient-focused approach with its own medical infrastructure.
Apollo to Expand Onco’s Reach Under Oncology Plan
“Apollo acquired Onco.com in a transaction that concluded in December 2024. Moving forward, Onco will be built by Apollo as part of its oncology plan. Apollo plans to infuse more capital to grow the startup’s business,” said one of the sources.
This move is expected to bring fresh momentum to Onco’s operations, especially after the startup was in the spotlight earlier this month due to rumors of a shutdown. The buzz began when OkCredit co-founder and CEO Harsh Pokharna posted on LinkedIn, suggesting that Onco had ceased operations—sparking concern and speculation in the startup ecosystem.
However, the recent confirmation of the acquisition paints a different picture. Rather than shutting down, Onco is transitioning into a new phase under the leadership and resources of Apollo Hospitals, India’s leading private healthcare group.
What Onco Brings to Apollo
Founded in 2016, Onco.com was built with the mission of making quality cancer care more accessible and personalized. The platform offers cancer patients access to expert opinions, treatment planning, and a network of oncologists across India and abroad. Over the years, Onco served thousands of patients and built a strong reputation for simplifying cancer treatment journeys using technology.
By integrating Onco’s digital capabilities, Apollo Hospitals is looking to strengthen its end-to-end oncology care model, which already includes diagnostics, treatment, and post-treatment support. Onco’s virtual model will complement Apollo’s physical hospital network, potentially improving patient outreach, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
Healthtech Consolidation on the Rise
The acquisition reflects a broader trend of consolidation in the Indian healthtech space. As funding becomes tighter and competition intensifies, smaller startups are either shutting down or being acquired by larger players looking to enhance their digital capabilities.
For Apollo Hospitals, which has been increasingly investing in digital healthcare innovations—including its telehealth platform Apollo 24/7—the Onco acquisition aligns with its long-term digital transformation strategy.
Conclusion
While initial reports suggested a shutdown, Onco.com is now set for a revival under Apollo Hospitals. The acquisition not only ensures the continuation of Onco’s mission but also marks a new chapter in India’s digital cancer care journey. As Apollo integrates Onco into its oncology roadmap, the healthcare industry will be watching closely to see how this synergy improves access and outcomes for cancer patients across the country.
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