I got started in the business of medicine many years ago in 1972. And my inspiration was my spiritual teacher in India and my grandfather who had to leave medical school because of familial pressure. Their encouragement led to my going to medical school and my subsequent career in Medicine.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
When I finished my Cardiology Fellowship Program in 1988 my mentor Dr. Rahimtoola, at the University of Southern California advised me to start a private practice at an institution for a year and then come back to the University for an academic appointment. I came to London Kentucky for a year – but never went back. I have never regretted my decision. At the end of the day, life is made worthwhile by the people around you and the people in Ky are just the nicest people that I have met.
How do you make money?
In our line of business, we make money by service to suffering patients. If the service helps in relief of symptoms it results in patient satisfaction. That’s an intangible return on investment for physicians. In addition, there is financial reimbursement which comes from the Insurance company.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It took me about two years to become profitable in 1988. In my current practice which I started in 2013 I have yet to become profitable because the reimbursement system has changed significantly over the last few years.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
I had none. I was very confident that my training and my intention to serve would always give me a fair reimbursement for living.
How did you get your first patient?
My first patient was very interesting. This gentleman was admitted to the little rural hospital with chest pain and needed a heart cath. I was new in London, Kentucky and since the procedure was new and would be the first to be done here, it was going to be covered by newspapers. I was very excited. However, during the night, the patient left the hospital without telling anybody. All the newspapers came, but there was no patient. I subsequently met the same patient about 18 years later. He was doing well but needed other treatments. He underwent all the procedures as directed and the treatments necessary.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
What Marketing strategy worked for me) In my case “word of mouth advertisement” really works. .If one gives. full service to a patient so that he/she is satisfied, he/she will talk to their relatives and friends and that generally double or triples my business .
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
The toughest decision that I had to make in the last few months. Is whether to continue private practice versus joining a hospital as their employee.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
What makes me successful is my concern about the health of my patients.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
My most satisfying moment in this business was when my 103 year old patient came to my office thank me for all that I had done for him over the last 25 years . He told me that it meant as much to him as the service medals that he got during the war. I should feel proud about it.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
As far as I’m concerned, the future is not very bright. I am most excited about retiring in the next few years.
What business books have inspired you?
I have not read any business books for inspiration . However. I read a book about the sayings of Sri Ramakrishna who lived. In the nineteenth century. And. This book inspires me day and night to do what is right.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your business?
The most recent purchase that I have made and that helped me with my business is a new Echocardiographic ultrasound machine, that I use for a lot of vascular work. Since the results are digital they download the results directly to my computer.
What do I see in myself doing in 5 years?
In the next five years, I see myself. retired in the and helping my children. In their occupation. Plus enjoying my grandchildren.