Sree Uthradam Thirunal (SUT) Hospital
As India embarks on its journey into the digital era, the landscape of healthcare is undergoing a profound transformation. With advancements like telemedicine consultations and AI-driven diagnostics, the future of healthcare holds immense promise, marked by enhanced accessibility, efficiency, and personalized care delivery. Amidst this dynamic evolution, Sree Uthradam Thirunal (SUT) Hospital emerges as a beacon of innovation and excellence, poised to lead the way into tomorrow’s healthcare paradigm.
Renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality care and a patient-centric approach, SUT Hospital has embraced cutting-edge technologies and digital health solutions. In our exclusive interview with Col. Rajeev Mannali, the CEO of SUT Hospital, we delve into the institution’s ethos, its journey of innovation, and its vision for the future. Join us as we uncover the remarkable story of SUT Hospital and its transformative impact on healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
Can you talk about how SUT Hospital has evolved in terms of early detection and management of viruses and diseases?
We believe in the importance of preventive measures in healthcare. Prevention is indeed better than cure. At SUT Hospital, we have implemented various systems to raise awareness about diseases, including pandemics, among different segments of society. We conduct regular classes and outreach programs, even in remote areas, to ensure communities are informed. Our robust preventive care checkup system plays a crucial role in early detection. We focus on bringing prevention without expecting immediate commercial benefits. In addition to prevention, we also provide curative care for those who require treatment.
Can you provide more details about SUT Hospital’s partnerships with healthcare organizations, both locally and internationally?
We collaborate with various entities, including NGOs, governmental agencies, and educational institutions like schools and colleges. These partnerships help us extend our reach and create awareness about healthcare. Schools and colleges, in particular, play a vital role in disseminating health-related information. Our aim is to foster collaborations with anyone willing to join hands with us in promoting health and well-being.
How crucial is technology for SUT Hospital?
We are committed to leveraging technology to improve patient care and operational efficiency. For instance, during the early stages of the pandemic, we introduced robots to assist in patient care and logistics. We continuously evaluate new technologies and integrate them into our practices wherever feasible and cost-effective. However, we ensure that technology adoption aligns with our financial capabilities and patient needs.
How does SUT Hospital ensure its services remain accessible to the general public?
We have been mindful of affordability while maintaining the quality of our services. Despite economic challenges, we have not increased our tariffs in the last six years. Instead, we have focused on cost optimization measures internally to keep our services affordable. Our commitment to providing quality healthcare at reasonable prices drives our efforts to manage costs effectively.
After gaining insights from Col. Mannali about SUT Hospital’s essence, let’s delve deeper into the compelling narrative of its remarkable journey.
The Evolution of SUT Hospital as a Healthcare Pioneer
Established in 1987, Sree Uthradam Thirunal (SUT) Super Specialty Hospital at Pattom,Thiruvananthapuram, is a multi-specialty healthcare facility, has been instrumental in bridging crucial healthcare gaps in the region while pioneering tertiary and quaternary care services. Dr. C Bharath Chandran, a distinguished cardiologist, founded the hospital with a vision of delivering exceptional healthcare. With steadfast dedication from the clinical and support teams, SUT Hospital has risen consistently delivering unparalleled treatment and care.
Guided by the visionary leadership of Chairman B R Shetty, SUT Hospital has reached unprecedented heights as a provider of exemplary healthcare services. Through collaborative efforts, the hospital has not only navigated challenges but also propelled towards achieving excellence. Under Chairman B R Shetty’s stewardship and Col. Mannali’s supervision, SUT Hospital has transformed into a dynamic institution that seamlessly integrates state-of-the-art medical advancements with compassionate care, fostering an environment where patients not only recover but thrive.
Also, during its formative years, the hospital achieved numerous pioneering milestones, including conducting Kerala’s inaugural beating heart surgery and successfully performing the first complicated mitral valvuloplasty within a mere three years of its establishment.
Excellence in Specialized Care
SUT Hospital prides itself on its extensive array of over 30 specialty departments, encompassing fields such as cardiac science, neuroscience, gastro surgery, plastic surgery, urology, nephrology, obstetrics and gynecology (OBG), and vascular surgery. Its round-the-clock emergency and trauma care services further reinforce its stature as a comprehensive center of healthcare excellence. Starting from its modest origins with fewer than 100 beds, SUT has evolved into a 200-bedded hospital equipped with seven state-of-the-art operation theaters and 67 ICU beds.
Within its neuroscience department, SUT has cultivated a thriving center of excellence, garnering acclaim for its exceptional contributions to stroke care. Dr. Thomas Iype, the Head of Neurology Department, was honored with the “Best Stroke Care Provider of the Year” Award in October 2023 by Voice of Healthcare, a national-level NGO. Moreover, SUT’s unwavering commitment to ethical clinical practices has earned widespread recognition.
Beyond Healthcare
SUT Hospital transcends its role as a healthcare provider to serve as a distinguished training center sanctioned by the American Heart Association. Here, individuals can enroll in courses spanning Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and ‘Heart Saver’ programs. Upholding a commitment to excellence, SUT ensures top-tier training with accredited instructors and faculty members.
Since its inception, SUT has cultivated a culture of quality ingrained within its framework, underscored by its esteemed certification from the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). This certification ensures that patients receive care that not only fosters healing but also adheres to the highest ethical standards. Moreover, recognized as an “Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Center” by the Pharmaco Vigilance Program of India, SUT further solidifies its dedication to patient safety and pharmacovigilance.
SUT’s exceptional focus on maternal and infant care has earned it the prestigious Mother & Baby Friendly Hospital accreditation (MBFHI), boasting an impressive score of 99.03%, the second-highest in the state. This accolade cements SUT’s reputation as a sanctuary for newborns and mothers, where their well-being is prioritized above all else.
Col. Rajeev Mannali – CEO
Col. Rajeev Mannali epitomizes a life dedicated to service, transitioning seamlessly from the battleground to the realm of lifesaving healthcare. His journey commenced at Sainik School at the age of 11, leading to a distinguished military career spanning over 33 years. As a Squadron Commander in the IPKF and Chief Logistics Officer in Jammu & Kashmir, he exhibited valor and leadership. Post-retirement, Col. Mannali embarked on a second innings, transforming healthcare institutions with innovative initiatives, earning accolades such as the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation Award for Excellence in Healthcare Management. His impactful leadership at SUT Hospital underscores his commitment to excellence, embodying dedication, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to societal upliftment. Beyond his remarkable achievements, Col. Mannali’s extensive contributions to healthcare and societal issues through his writings and speeches reflect his passion and unwavering commitment to exemplary standards—a multifaceted luminary shaping a brighter future for healthcare.
