‘Lakshmi’s surgery placed Bangalore on world map’

‘Lakshmi’s surgery placed Bangalore on world map’
TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Bangalore: The surgery to s e p a r at e two-year-old L a k s h m i from her p a r a s i t i c twin established Bangalore’s credentials as a centre for advanced healthcare. Pooja Virendra Kumar talks to Dr Sharan Patil, who led the team of 16 doctors in surgery, about this unique feat and his vision to improve healthcare infrastructure in the city.
How has this surgery helped Bangalore to highlight itself as a global health hub?
Getting praise from leading surgeons from 45 countries speaks volumes of how the surgery was perceived. It also re-energised our fellow doctors in Bangalore about what we are capable of doing. It has taken Indian medicine a step ahead.
Do you have any plans of setting up a team/unit for such specialised surgeries?
Not necessarily, as we have all the expertise required and the team can be instantaneously formed to deal with any type of complicated surgery.
What is more important — technical advantage or experience?
It’s difficult to choose. It’s a combination of both as technical advancements deliver best results only when applied correctly. Similarly, professional expertise brings desired results with help of technology. But they amount to little if the doctors’ commitment is missing. In Lakshmi’s case, it was meticulous planning, along with expertise and technology, that made the surgery successful.
What are the bottlenecks that prevent Bangalore from becoming a global healthcare centre?
Primarily, it’s the city’s infrastructure. Decongestion of the city and improved traffic movement will help. Also, tourist-friendly infrastructure like signboards and better public transportation will make people feel comfortable.
What are Bangalore’s assets to make a mark on the global map?
Bangalore is a knowledge capital, with an excellent pool of skilled and committed people. Also, hospitality of the people and the moderate weather are conducive for patients to come here for treatment.
How can the city’s health sector improve?
A system to grade services available at different hospitals will help people choose hospitals and clinics as per their need. For instance, hospitals offering trauma care can be graded depending on how comprehensive the treatment is so that it’s easier for people to choose hospitals in an emergency.
What are the challenges while setting up a worldclass hospital in the city?
The lack of professionalism in construction activity and absence of any set standards for costs and expenses related to hospitals are the most common challenges.