Dr Anant Pandhare Takes Charge as AIIMS Nagpur President

Dr Pandhare emphasized the need for a more patient-friendly approach while addressing the shortage of doctors and healthcare staff.

While taking over as the new president, Dr Anant stated, “It is amazing how AIIMS Nagpur has developed in such a short time. Patients trust the hospital, and the doctors are committed to patient service. What makes it special is that none of them is engaged in private practice. Their only focus is on their duty at AIIMS.”

Dr. Pandhare took over from Dr. Vikas Mahatme and held a series of meetings with staff, students, and faculty members to understand the immediate concerns of the institution. According to The Times of India, he shared his goal of securing administrative approval within the next three months to recruit 350-400 new healthcare professionals. This includes doctors, resident doctors, and junior staff, which he believes is essential for the efficient functioning of the hospital. “AIIMS, Nagpur is now catering to a huge number of patients and we need more manpower. Our focus is on getting necessary approvals from the Central and state govts to ensure we have enough doctors to serve patients," he said.

Along with increasing manpower, Dr. Pandhare stressed the importance of better infrastructure to enhance medical services at AIIMS Nagpur. With a career dedicated to public health and social service, he aims to ensure quality treatment for patients without imposing excessive financial burdens. "We need to expand hostels for resident doctors and juniors so that they have a comfortable place to stay. AIIMS Nagpur is growing, and facilities need to grow accordingly," he explained.

However, he also lauded the progress that AIIMS Nagpur did in such a short time. “Seeing the state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities was fulfilling. Patients of Central India are benefiting from PET scans, 23 modular OTs, linear accelerators, and all modalities. I could see the pride and satisfaction in the eyes of doctors,” he told the Daily. Talking about this new assignment, he admitted. "Mine will be more of a mentorship role. I am here to guide and support AIIMS Nagpur in its journey ahead. There are many plans in the pipeline, and I am eager to implement them for the benefit of the people."

Dr. Pandhare is the vice-chairman of the Indian Red Cross Society and serves as the director of Shri Ramchandra Institute of Medical Sciences. Additionally, he is the managing trustee of Siukapha Hospital in Assam and Dr. Hedgewar Hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. Having been associated with Dr. Hedgewar Hospital since the beginning of his career, he has built a reputation for his commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare.