Healing beyond hospitals: Dr. Ritu Khemani's journey to community medical service
- Meena R Prashant
- 29 Oct, 2024
In the demanding world of medicine, where expertise meets compassion, Dr. Ritu Khemani shines as a beacon of hope and care. At just 31 years old, she has made remarkable progress in her career while also dedicating herself to social service. Practicing at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, Dr. Ritu specializes in treating lifestyle disorders such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, thyroid issues, and women's health. She balances her roles as a diet and lifestyle coach, a skin and hair medicine expert, and a creator of engaging educational content with her passion for community service.
A Journey of Compassion and Dedication
Dr. Ritu's commitment to social service began in her childhood, volunteering at old age homes and orphanages. These early experiences shaped her view on life and inspired her dedication to giving back. "As the saying goes, 'Until we manage our time, we can manage nothing,'" she reflects, highlighting the importance of prioritizing service. Her ability to balance professional duties with community outreach demonstrates her unwavering dedication. "Empathy is the most crucial element in the medical field, and it naturally stems from spending quality time with loved ones," she explains. This deep understanding of human emotions fuels her commitment to providing compassionate care.
She has organized numerous medical camps, partnering with specialists, hospitals, NGOs, and educational institutions to reach underserved populations. "The logistics for these camps are arranged by the organizers, usually in accessible venues," she shares. Dr. Ritu acknowledges the financial challenges of these efforts, but through The Divine Foundation, she collaborates with like-minded individuals and organizations to secure funding for their initiatives.
Organizing health camps comes with its share of challenges. Dr. Ritu points out the difficulty in encouraging individuals to openly discuss their health concerns. "It takes considerable effort to build trust initially, but with time, people become more comfortable," she notes. During these camps, basic health screenings help identify issues, with immediate medication provided for minor ailments. Serious conditions are referred to leading hospitals under government health programs. The Divine Foundation also supports minor surgeries to ensure patients receive timely relief.
Advice for Aspiring Medical Professionals
For those aiming to make a difference in healthcare, Dr. Ritu offers simple yet impactful advice: "Do your best, and let destiny do the rest." She emphasizes the importance of empathy towards the elderly, orphans, and those with mental health challenges, encouraging young professionals to help improve the quality of life for those in need.
A Call for Government Support
Dr. Ritu advocates for greater government involvement in improving healthcare accessibility. She calls for reduced prices on essential medicines and increased public-private partnerships to enhance health services. Additionally, she suggests providing direct financial support to doctors working in rural areas to facilitate various health initiatives.
Join the Movement
Dr. Ritu invites those inspired by her mission to get involved with The Divine Foundation. "We welcome anyone who wishes to contribute to our efforts. You can find us on Instagram under The Divine Foundation or contact us via phone at +91 93226 68800," she encourages.