Mumbai: The healthcare sector stands as a cornerstone of societal well-being, encompassing a complex web of medical services, institutions, professionals, and technologies. Rooted in the fundamental goal of promoting health, preventing illness, and providing care, the healthcare sector plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the physical, mental, and emotional vitality of individuals and communities.
Characterised by constant advancements in medical science, technological innovation, and evolving care models, the sector continuously adapts to meet the changing needs and challenges of a dynamic world. From hospitals and clinics to research facilities and pharmaceutical companies, the healthcare sector is a diverse and vital ecosystem that extends its influence into every facet of human life.
Indiantelevision.com caught up with Prayag Hospital CEO Pritika Singh to know more about her journey, COVID’s impact on mental health, the hospital’s expansion plans, and much more.
Pritika Singh is an award-winning and game-changer leader in the healthcare sector. Her business interests vary across many fields, from healthcare business, beauty, mental health, yoga, meditation, and the pharma industry. She is actively pursuing women’s rights and philosophy. She has worked towards women’s empowerment and other women-centric issues. She became the CEO of Prayag Hospital at the age of 23. Under her leadership, Prayag Hospital expanded and opened two more locations.
Edited Excerpts:
On Prayag Hospital’s contribution to the awareness and treatment of mental health issues
Mental health, once a taboo, is gradually finding its place in open conversations. Being a strong mental health advocate, I emphasise its importance in healthcare domain and our team works with diverse segments of society, including correctional facilities, orphanages, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), while also organising meditation camps. We have observed that due to absence of families, these individuals suffer from substantial emotional burdens that adversely affect mental well-being. Thus, acknowledging the gravity of this issue, our team works closely with these individuals, extending unwavering support to tackle their mental health struggles.
On the COVID-19 pandemic's disproportionate impact on mental health and any observable trends indicating increased susceptibility among women
Certainly, the COVID-19 pandemic has indeed had a significant impact on mental health worldwide. The isolation, uncertainty, fear of illness, and disruptions to daily life have collectively contributed to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among various populations. In my knowledge and being a healthcare professional, I have observed several trends that suggest women may be more susceptible to these adverse mental health effects.
As women often bear the brunt of looking after the family. The closure of schools and daycare centers, coupled with remote work arrangements, has increased the caregiving burden on women. Balancing work, household chores, and childcare without adequate support led to heightened stress levels and a sense of being overwhelmed. Then gender-based violence and abuse exacerbated during lockdowns when escape routes and support systems were limited. The increased risk of violence and the trauma associated with it had severe implications for their mental well-being.
On the inspiration behind venturing into this field right after completing studies
Having grown up in an environment where healthcare and entrepreneurship were integral parts of my family's life, my journey into the healthcare industry as a young CEO was a natural progression for me. Both my parents played pivotal roles in shaping my aspirations. My father's dedication to the medical profession instilled in me a deep appreciation for healthcare, while my mother's entrepreneurial ventures ignited a passion for business and innovation.
From an early age, I found myself drawn to the world of entrepreneurship, inspired by my mother's successes. I admired her ability to turn ideas into reality, and even before fully grasping the complexities of entrepreneurship, I was determined to follow in her footsteps. As I progressed through my education, particularly during my 11th and 12th grades, my understanding of entrepreneurship deepened. I began crafting business plans, envisioning my own path forward in the business world.
Upon completing my MBA, I was eager to merge my dual passions for healthcare and entrepreneurship. Joining Prayag Hospital as the planning and strategy director provided me with a unique opportunity to bridge these two worlds. As I delved into the intricacies of hospital operations and patient care, I realised the immense potential for innovation and improvement within the healthcare sector. My journey continues to be fuelled by the desire to make a meaningful impact on both the healthcare industry and the lives of the patients we serve.
On your vision for Prayag Hospital's expansion across India and the plan to tackle the challenges that might arise during this expansion
Our journey is driven by a commitment to extending quality healthcare services to every corner of the country. Our immediate focus lies on expanding our presence within Uttar Pradesh, the largest and most populated state in India. Recognising the immense need for accessible and top-notch healthcare, we are diligently working on establishing new hospitals and medical centres in key regions of Uttar Pradesh. This strategic approach allows us to address the healthcare gaps prevalent in these areas and ensure that quality medical services are available to all.
Looking beyond our national borders, we are ambitiously planning to set up branches of Prayag Hospital in Indonesia and Uzbekistan. Our goal is to replicate the success and patient-centric approach that defines our brand, bringing our high standards of healthcare to regions where such services are limited. By expanding internationally, we aim to not only contribute to the health and well-being of communities abroad but also showcase the prowess of Indian healthcare on a global platform.
Expanding across diverse regions comes with its own set of challenges, and we are well-prepared to tackle them head-on. The foremost challenge is to maintain consistent quality across all our branches, ensuring that the patient experience remains our top priority. To achieve this, we have a dedicated team that is focused on training and upskilling our staff to meet our established standards of care. Additionally, we are investing in advanced medical technology and infrastructure to guarantee seamless healthcare delivery, regardless of the location.
On the translation of your focus on women's rights into initiatives within and outside the healthcare sector
I am deeply committed to advancing women's rights and promoting their empowerment. Annually, we organise free camps for acid attack survivors, providing essential support. Moreover, we facilitate around 100 surgeries at minimal expenses to enhance the quality of their lives. Observing the challenges endured by acid attack survivors has galvanised my advocacy for their cause. Going forward, I am committed to extending medical care, therapeutic counselling, and a secure haven for their holistic healing.
On the strategies for attracting and retaining young talent, given the industry's demands
Our conviction lies in the notion that the healthcare sector stands as a conduit for both economic advancement and communal well-being. As we expand our infrastructure, our goal centres on accommodating a wider patient demographic, and furnishing tailored medical expertise. This endeavour entails the recruitment of proficient physicians, nurses, technicians, and ancillary personnel.
In our bid to attract young talents to this virtuous domain, a comprehensive strategy has been meticulously devised. Also, we are committed to substantial investments in robust training and developmental initiatives, endowing them with requisite proficiencies and cultivating an environment conducive to perpetual learning.
On the key milestones that Prayag Hospital has achieved since its inception
Founded in 1995, Prayag Hospital has evolved into a leading multispeciality facility. The hospital's mission is to offer top-notch healthcare at affordable rates. Prayag Hospital's patient-centred approach has revolutionised India's healthcare landscape, ensuring quality treatment accessible to all. At Prayag Hospital, we have introduced a special ward for below poverty line patients, providing free medical care while only charging for medicines. We have also set up holistic healing centres to spread the word about staying healthy before getting sick. To make things easier for everyone, we have taken the initiative to educate patients about government healthcare plans like Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, and Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana.
On the most pressing challenges that the healthcare industry will encounter in 2023 and beyond
India's hospital industry, constituting 80 per cent of the healthcare market, is attracting significant investor interest globally and domestically. Projected to grow at a CAGR of 16-17 per cent, the sector is set to reach $132 Bn by 2023. Having said that, the healthcare sector has been grappled with escalating costs and persistent health disparities, posing significant barriers to equitable and accessible care. Additionally, integrating advancing technologies while safeguarding patient privacy remains a complex challenge.
On the strategies to position the hospital as a global healthcare provider
Prayag Hospital aims to go global as we are establishing fully equipped clinics in Dubai and Uzbekistan. After a trial period, we will refine our services and expand to other countries, adapting to their unique healthcare needs and regulations. Through strategic technological integration, we will seamlessly harmonise operations between our international clinics and our Indian headquarters, ensuring efficient cross-border collaboration. Our robust affiliations with local healthcare entities and government bodies will facilitate the delivery of comprehensive and enduring healthcare solutions.
On incorporating initiatives such as assisting acid attack survivors into Prayag Hospital's overall mission
Officially reported acid attack incidents number between 250-300 annually, yet experts believe the actual count could surpass 1,000. We organise free camps yearly for acid attack victims and undertake around 100 surgeries at nominal costs to help better the lives of the survivors. These camps empower survivors to overcome trauma, foster resilience, and reintegrate into society, making a tangible difference in their lives.
On the intersection of technology and healthcare shaping the industry's future and Prayag Hospital embracing these advancements
The rapid advancements in technology have opened up new avenues for enhancing patient care, streamlining processes, and improving overall healthcare outcomes. At Prayag Hospital, we recognise that technologies such as electronic health records, telemedicine, and wearable health devices have the power to create a more connected and patient-centric healthcare ecosystem and thus embrace these wholeheartedly.
