- Fve senior specialists from Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad reflect on a more personal subject—how they manage the pressures of their profession, and what keeps them going when the hours get long, the stakes stay high, and the emotional toll begins to show
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PM Modi extends wishes on Doctors’ Day
NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, JULY 2
On most days, they are seen in operation theatres, emergency rooms, and ICUs—leading critical procedures, responding to emergencies, and making life-saving decisions. But as the country marks National Doctors’ Day, five senior specialists from Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad reflect on a more personal subject—how they manage the pressures of their profession, and what keeps them going when the hours get long, the stakes stay high, and the emotional toll begins to show.
For Dr Jayesh Prajapati, Senior Interventional Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, stress is part of the job description. “There’s no way to avoid it completely, but over the years, I’ve learnt to manage it better with time discipline. I’ve fixed hours for procedures, consultations, and lectures. While emergencies can never be predicted, having a structure helps maintain balance,” says Dr Prajapati. Having built a capable team, he now focuses only on critical cases that need his intervention. What keeps him grounded is the daily rhythm of connecting with family—regular morning walks with his wife and daily conversations with his children, no matter how busy the day has been. “Sundays are reserved for friends, many of them doctors themselves—we meet for lunch, share experiences and laugh. That’s therapy in itself,” he added.
In surgical oncology, the emotional weight is often heavier than the physical demands. “We lose patients when they come to us at an advance stage of cancer. That’s the hard reality,” says Dr M Laxmidhar, Senior Consultant and Director, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad. “But when you know that you’re helping many of those advance cancer patients survive, that’s what drives you forward.” For him, a morning fitness routine and meaningful family time are non-negotiable. “Talking to my children and parents gives me perspective. And when a patient who has recovered walks back into the OPD smiling—that moment stays with you for a long time. That’s a real stress buster”
Dr Pathik Parikh, Liver Transplant Physician at Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, believes monotony is often the hidden source of burnout. “We’re always on call, often working all seven days. Anything that breaks that routine—whether it’s travelling, spending time with family, or learning something new—helps.” His recent pursuit of an MBA, followed by his ongoing work on developing a mobile application for digitising health records, is his way of staying curious and mentally active outside of clinical work. “I encourage colleagues to invest in their interests. It refreshes the mind,” Dr Parikh said.
For Dr Daria Singh, Clinical Director, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Joint Replacement Programme, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, stress management begins with anticipating the day ahead. “I plan my day meticulously. That helps avoid last-minute pressure,” he says. Physical activity, regular cycling, and family time are the cornerstones of his routine. But he adds that communication is equally important. “I make it a point to set realistic expectations for patients and their families. That builds trust and reduces pressure on both sides. In this line of work, family support becomes the cushion that absorbs much of the mental strain.”
Emergency care, perhaps more than any other field, tests resilience constantly. “You have to take split-second decisions without letting panic get the better of you,” says Dr Sanjay Shah, Trauma Surgeon and Head of the Emergency Department, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad. Having served during disasters, riots and terrorist attack, he knows first-hand how exhausting the role can be. “We’re trained to handle critical cases, but that doesn’t make us immune to stress. For me, prayer, meditation and yoga are essential. They help restore focus and peace. Taking short breaks with friends and family also helps recharge emotionally.”
PM Modi extends wishes on Doctors’ Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended his best wishes to medical practitioners across the country on Doctors’ Day, praising their exceptional contributions to India’s healthcare infrastructure.
In a heartfelt message shared on handle X, PM Modi acknowledged the dexterity, diligence, and compassion of doctors, calling them “protectors of health and pillars of humanity.”
“Best wishes to all hardworking doctors on #DoctorsDay. Our doctors have made a mark for their dexterity and diligence,” he said in his post.
Stating that “equally notable is their spirit of compassion,” the Prime Minister said: “They are truly protectors of health and pillars of humanity. Their contribution in strengthening India’s healthcare infrastructure is indeed exceptional. “
The Prime Minister’s message is not just a tribute to the tireless efforts and dedication of doctors in providing quality healthcare to citizens but also serve as a reminder of the crucial role doctors play in India’s healthcare system.
