THE STARS OF THE MANIPAL HOSPITALS, GOA

Dr Mahesh Naik, one of the senior doctors at Manipal Hospitals Goa, embarked on his medical journey in 1987 when he joined Kasturba Medical College in Manipal as an assistant professor.

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Reflecting on his experience, he expressed admiration for the working culture at the esteemed institution. His dedication and expertise led to his promotion as a professor of Surgery in 1994, coinciding with the transformation of Kasturba Medical College into Manipal Academy of Higher Education, a renowned name in the academic world.

In 1994, as Manipal Hospitals planned its expansion into Goa, Dr. Mahesh Naik, being Goan himself with an educational background from GMC, was entrusted with the responsibility of spearheading the development in the region. Recalling the initial conditions, he described visiting the proposed site, a barren land with only a resident doctor and a security guard housed in a small building devoid of facilities.

Upon returning to Manipal, Dr Mahesh Naik provided feedback on the dire situation in Goa, expressing scepticism about establishing a hospital there. However, Mr. Ramdas Pai, the head of the trust, reassured him of their ambitious plans to set up a 200-bed hospital in Goa. Dr. Naik was moved by Mr. Pai's sincerity and his deep-rooted connection to Goa, evidenced by his devotion to Devi Mahalasa, a deity in the region. Recognizing the genuine intent behind the initiative, Dr. Naik committed himself to the project, recognizing it as a step in the right direction.

At that time, Manipal Hospitals intended to enter into a joint venture with the existing Goa Cancer Society, which operated the facility in Dona Paula, Goa. Dr Mahesh Naik's involvement marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Manipal Hospitals in Goa, driven by a vision to provide quality healthcare services to the people of the region.