In an industry characterized by innovation and compassion, women doctors are at the forefront, driving change and advancing patient care. Especially fields like ophthalmology involve making critical decisions regarding treating patients’ eyes. From keeping up with the patient load to dealing with emergencies, managing staff, and handling administrative tasks, the profession can be both physically and mentally demanding. In such an environment, women doctors are rising to prominence, challenging conventions, and reshaping industries with their ingenuity and resilience. Dr. Sujatha Mohan exemplifies this spirit of progress, with her tireless dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and advocating for her patients. Through her experience and expertise, Dr. Mohan is redefining the standard of excellence in the ophthalmology field, inspiring future generations of women doctors to follow in her footsteps.

In this interview, we explore the inspiring journey and transformative work of Dr. Sujatha Mohan, a passionate ophthalmologist in the healthcare world.

What significant aspects of your life and career journey do you want to emphasize in the article?

I come from a family deeply rooted in medicine, with generations of doctors before me. My grandfather and father, both highly respected practitioners, served a rural village for nearly a century, leaving a lasting impact. Their dedication inspired me, as did the many doctors among my cousins. With medicine practically a family tradition, becoming a doctor was almost predetermined. Despite initial expectations to pursue obstetrics, my passion for ophthalmology was ignited by my inspiring professor Dr. Ramaiah during my undergraduate years. Despite ophthalmology not being a popular choice at the time, I was drawn to its intricacies. Under the mentorship of renowned ophthalmologist Dr. S. S. Badrinath, I furthered my training at Sankara Nethralaya. Notably, Dr. S. S. Badrinath’s revolutionary contributions to Indian ophthalmology profoundly influenced my journey, highlighting the importance of mentors and pioneers in shaping my career path.

Can you share your extensive experience as a specialist in eye diseases, highlighting the key areas you treat and the procedures you have performed?

Following my graduation from Sankara Nethralaya, my husband, Dr. Mohan Rajan, and I, both eye specialists, began our careers at the Eye clinic managed by my father-in-law, who was also a professor of ophthalmology. While working there, we established a small clinic a few kilometers away to efficiently manage our workload. We initially started as cataract surgeons, performing intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE), as that was the standard technique at the time. However, as intraocular lens implantation gained popularity, we transitioned to extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE). Subsequently, we embraced the advancements in surgical techniques, including micro-incision phacoemulsification, which my husband learned in London in 1993.

Our commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation led us to incorporate state-of-the-art technology such as robotic cataract surgery and 3D technology into our practice. Despite the financial investments required, we have prioritized acquiring and mastering new technologies, positioning ourselves as pioneers in ophthalmology in our region. As for my specialty, though I am a prolific cataract surgeon, I primarily focus on corneal and Refractive surgery, although I was involved in glaucoma surgeries until recently.

Could you provide an overview of Rajan Eyecare Hospital, including its founding, growth, and key areas of specialization in healthcare?

Rajan Eye Care Hospital was established by my husband, Dr. Mohan Rajan, and me, with the guidance of my father-in-law, Professor Rajan. Initially, it began as a modest two-patient clinic spanning 2500 square feet. Over the years, it has evolved into a 25,000-square-foot super-specialty hospital, housing various subspecialties of eyecare, such as retina, cornea, glaucoma, oculoplasty and pediatric ophthalmology. Our hospital features specialist consultants dedicated to their respective fields, forming a cohesive team with a shared passion for learning and excellence in surgical skills.

Since its inception in 1995, Rajan Eye Care Hospital has grown significantly. We now have experts in diverse areas, including glaucoma surgeries, retina, neuro-ophthalmology, and more. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology across all specialties, ensuring that we stay current with the latest advancements for the benefit of our patients.

Notably, we have incorporated robotic cataract surgery, 3D technology for various surgeries, and specialized laser equipment like the Excimer Laser refractive suite and SMILE laser for myopia correction. Additionally, our commitment to education is evident through postgraduate and fellowship training programs, offering specialized courses in glaucoma, cornea, and retina.

In 1995, we established the Chennai Vision Charitable Trust, providing free-of-cost treatments to patients in need. In 1996, the hospital's Rotary Rajan Eye Bank was established. This ensures the availability of corneas for Corneal transplant surgeries. As a corneal surgeon, I oversee the utilization of harvested eyes, offering discounted or completely free surgeries to those who cannot afford them. Our core principle is to ensure that no patient is turned away due to financial constraints, as we tailor the cost of surgeries based on the patient's ability to pay.

What are your insights into the future of the Indian Healthcare Services sector, considering technological advancements?

The Indian Healthcare Services sector has a bright future, driven by extraordinary technological progress. Eye surgery has already gone to the next level, with advancements seen in cataract, cornea, and glaucoma procedures. Self-sealing incisions have replaced the need for stitches in surgeries such as cataracts and glaucoma and lamellar corneal transplants contributing to quicker recovery and early ambulation. The skill levels in cornea, glaucoma, Retina, and cataract surgeries have reached impressive heights.

Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to play a pivotal role, particularly in early problem detection. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy, prevalent due to the increasing diabetic population, can be identified early, allowing for preventive measures. Similarly, AI can aid in understanding the genetic predisposition to glaucoma and the specific type of glaucoma a patient may have. This technological advancement is set to revolutionize patient care, ensuring a bright and promising future for the healthcare sector in India.

Dr. Sujatha Mohan, Executive Medical Director, Rajan Eye Care Hospital

Dr. Sujatha Mohan, an experienced Phaco Refractive Surgeon, is the Executive Medical Director of Rajan Eye Care Hospital, specializing in Cataract, Cornea and Refractive Surgery. Dr. Sujatha is the recipient of the Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian award for women bestowed by the Government of India. She was honored with this award in recognition of her outstanding work in the field of community eye care.