Q. SPARSH marks two decades this year. What does this milestone represent for you?
Twenty years is less about celebrating longevity and more about reflecting on responsibility. SPARSH began with a simple aspiration—to create a healthcare institution where clinical excellence and compassion coexist. Looking back, the greatest achievement isn't the scale we've reached, but the confidence patients have placed in us. Every milestone has been shaped by the collective efforts of our doctors, nurses, employees, and the communities we serve.
Q. What inspired you to establish SPARSH, and what principles continue to guide it?
From day one, we wanted to build more than a hospital. The vision was to create an institution that combines professional efficiency, a culture of continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. Those principles continue to define every decision we make. We believe quality healthcare must balance innovation with empathy and growth with purpose.
Q. Did you foresee SPARSH evolving into one of South India's leading healthcare providers?
Growth was always an aspiration, but healthcare demands patience and consistency. We started as a specialised orthopaedic hospital and gradually expanded into a comprehensive healthcare network. Today, SPARSH operates eight hospitals with over 1,600 beds, more than 600 consultants, and serves over 1.5 million patients every year, including people from several countries. While these numbers are encouraging, our real measure of success is the quality of care we deliver every day.
Q. What has been the strongest driver behind SPARSH's sustained growth?
Our foundation has always been clinical excellence. In healthcare, reputation is earned through outcomes, not advertising. We have consistently invested in talented clinicians, multidisciplinary teamwork, and robust clinical systems. When patients receive exceptional care, trust follows naturally, and that trust becomes the strongest driver of sustainable growth.
Q. Is there a defining chapter in SPARSH's journey that continues to inspire you?
One of the most memorable moments was the successful separation surgery of Lakshmi Tatma, a rare ischiopagus conjoined twin. The procedure involved an extensive multidisciplinary team working for nearly 27 hours. Beyond its medical complexity, the surgery reflected what SPARSH stands for—collaboration, preparation, innovation, and the belief that every patient deserves the best possible chance, regardless of the challenge.
Q. How has SPARSH strengthened its capabilities in advanced medical care?
Our philosophy has always been to ensure patients can access world-class treatment without having to travel elsewhere. Over the years, we have established centres of excellence across specialties including Cardiac Sciences, Neurosciences, Oncology, Organ Transplantation, Orthopaedics, Women & Childcare, Critical Care, and Emergency Medicine. Every expansion has been supported by advanced infrastructure, experienced specialists, research, and integrated clinical care.
Q. What role does technology play in your healthcare model?
Technology has become central to modern medicine, but its true value lies in improving patient outcomes. At SPARSH, we have invested in robotic surgery, advanced imaging systems, radiation therapy, Cath Labs, and other cutting-edge technologies. However, technology alone cannot transform healthcare—it must work alongside skilled clinicians, evidence-based protocols, and patient-centred decision-making.
Q. SPARSH has also been recognised for its social initiatives. Why has community outreach remained a priority?
Healthcare institutions have responsibilities that extend beyond hospital walls. Through the SPARSH Foundation, we have worked to improve access to quality healthcare for underserved communities across Karnataka. Programmes such as SPARSH Vachana, Guru Namana, and Hejje Guruthu have enabled free surgeries, specialised treatment, and outreach initiatives that have positively impacted millions of lives.
Q. How is SPARSH contributing to the future healthcare workforce?
Developing healthcare talent is essential for strengthening the entire ecosystem. Through our DNB programmes, Allied Health courses, and SPARSH College of Nursing, we are preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Our emphasis is not only on technical competence but also on building compassionate caregivers who uphold the highest ethical standards.
Q. As you look ahead, what is your vision for the next phase of SPARSH?
Healthcare is entering an era defined by precision medicine, digital integration, research, and personalised care. Our objective is to remain at the forefront of these advancements while preserving the values that have guided us for two decades. We will continue expanding responsibly, investing in innovation, strengthening clinical excellence, and most importantly, earning the trust of every patient who walks through our doors.
