CEO Insights India

As the saying goes, “A debt of gratitude is never truly paid. It is lived”. Some acts of care and kindness, especially those that lift us from the deep healthcare woes surrounding our children, are beyond repayment. The critical interventions of doctors and other medical professionals often leave an eternal impression on lives. This echoes the sentiments of thousands of patients of Dr Antony Robert Charles.

A beacon of hope and healing in pediatric surgical care, especially in Bengaluru, Dr Antony completed his MBBS at St. John's Medical College, Bengaluru, graduating as the best outgoing student receiving the Pope Paul Prize. He pursued postgraduate studies in General Surgery at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, followed by Pediatric Surgery at AIIMS, New Delhi. After serving at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia, and returning to serve his motherland, Dr Antony now leads Kindersurge, a team of pediatric surgeons dedicated to excellence in pediatric care, as its Director. He credits his success to his mentor, Dr Joseph Antony, the surgeon who saved his life as a baby. Antony honors this gift of life by serving as a pediatric surgeon himself, finding fulfillment in the lasting impact of his work, knowing the children he helps will thrive well beyond his lifetime. We are honored to have Dr Antony with us for an exclusive discussion.

You are a senior pediatric surgeon and urologist with over 25 years of experience. What inspires you to deliver world-class care?

Pediatric surgeons play a crucial role in children's care, focusing exclusively on the surgical needs of children from birth to adolescence. Their specialized

expertise is essential in addressing a spectrum of conditions unique to children, ranging from congenital defects, urological problems, abdominal diseases, respiratory emergencies, childhood cancers, and traumatic injuries. My own journey of overcoming health challenges fuels my passion for pediatric surgery, embodying empathy and resilience. In my infancy, I was operated on by my mentor surgeon, Dr Joseph Antony. As a pediatric surgeon, I feel my life is rightfully spent, repaying this gift of life to my surgeon, nurses, family and society. I find solace in the enduring impact of pediatric surgery, knowing that the lives I touch will flourish far beyond my own life span. All of these empower me to deliver world-class care to patients.

How do you ensure safe patient-centered practice while implementing medical advancements?

I strongly believe that collaboration with pediatricians and paediatric subspecialisits emphasizes a team approach to diagnosis and treatment, ensuring optimal outcomes with surgical intervention deployed judiciously, leading to a safe, patient-centered practice. Speaking of advancements, I reflect on the transformative advancements in pediatric surgery, safer anesthesia, critical care, minimally invasive techniques and fetal surgery. With laparoscopic instruments shrinking to a mere three millimeters, surgeries, once deemed invasive, are now minimally intrusive.

Contrary to apprehensions, children exhibit remarkable resilience, often surpassing adults in post-surgical recovery. Successful interventions typically yield a normal lifespan, with minimal long-term impact on lifestyle, barring specific conditions. Witnessing children's resilience firsthand, we are inspired to deliver excellence as pediatric surgeons.

I emphasize the ethical imperative of treating each child as my own, fully aware of the

profound impact medical decisions have on families, economically, emotionally, and beyond. Guided by empathy, we uphold the sanctity of humanity in every surgical intervention and always mindful of the immense privilege and responsibility of healthcare professionals.

You are well regarded as a beacon of hope and healing in pediatric surgical care. What makes this possible, especially over 25 years?

I would say it is teamwork. Collaborating with a dedicated team of six pediatric surgeons (in Kindersurge) across various city sectors, the group ensures accessibility to surgery irrespective of patients' financial constraints. I take pride in fostering a supportive community of parents whose shared experiences alleviate anxieties and provide invaluable support to each as parent support groups. This unique approach, emphasizing excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement, is what makes it possible.

Going forward, how do you perceive your future endeavors?

I have envisioned a multifaceted future, embracing roles beyond surgery. I heed lessons from a study on surgeons' retirement, preparing to transition at least a decade prior, and ensuring continuity through team delegation. My NGO, Child First Foundation, embodies my commitment to child welfare, a cause I plan to champion post-retirement. Embracing diverse interests like school education, model shipbuilding, embroidery, motivational talks and group sharing, I wish to nurture mental well-being. I owe my success to my parents Charles M & Annamal, my wife, Maryann Washington, daughter Abigail and son Jonathan and countless others who have given me a chance at this life.

Dr Antony Robert Charles, Director, Kindersurge

Dr Antony's unique approach, emphasizing excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement, sets him apart, making him a beacon of hope and healing in pediatric surgical care. He is an alumnus of AIIMS, New Delhi and leads Kindersurge as its Director.