Challenging the Norm: A Leadership Journey

Anu Moturi’s leadership journey is a remarkable testament to the power of adaptability, innovation, and a relentless commitment to challenging the norm. From her early days managing a Fortune 10 company to founding KRIYA Medical Technologies, Anu has continuously evolved as a leader, embracing the complexities and rewards that come with guiding a startup through rapid growth.

From Corporate to Entrepreneurship: A New Kind of Leadership

Transitioning from a structured corporate environment to the dynamic world of entrepreneurship required a different kind of leadership. Anu learned quickly that leading a team toward a shared vision demanded not just management skills but also the ability to inspire and innovate. Her approach to leadership is deeply rooted in empathy and an unwavering commitment to her team and their collective mission. The experience of balancing the fast-paced growth of a startup with the diverse needs of her team has shaped her into a leader who leads with intention and purpose.

Guiding Philosophy: Challenge the Norm

At the heart of Anu's success is a simple yet powerful philosophy: "Challenge the Norm." This guiding principle drives her to question assumptions, push through barriers, and create new paths where others might see obstacles. For Anu, leadership is not just about maintaining the status quo; it's about embracing change and constantly seeking ways to elevate her team and the impact they have on the world. This mindset is the cornerstone of her approach to both leadership and life, infusing every decision she makes with a sense of purpose and innovation.

A Turning Point: Embracing Innovation
 

Anu's journey to becoming the founder and CEO of KRIYA Med was marked by a significant turning point—the realization that true innovation requires the courage to defy expectations. Her experience in the corporate world taught her the value of structure and strategy, but it also highlighted the limitations of staying within predefined boundaries. As she embarked on the journey of building KRIYA, Anu understood that to drive real change, she needed to challenge conventional thinking and forge her path. This belief was further solidified by her experiences as a woman in leadership, where she has continuously pushed against the boundaries of what is considered possible.

Vision for the Future: Addressing Healthcare Inequities

Looking ahead, Anu is driven by a bold goal: to address inequities in healthcare by making cutting-edge medical technologies accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances. Through her leadership at KRIYA Medical Technologies, she is setting new benchmarks in quality, innovation, and accessibility. Anu's mission is not just to solve today’s healthcare challenges but to anticipate the needs of tomorrow, ensuring that KRIYA’s contributions to the industry are both lasting and transformative.

Anu’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that visionary leaders can have on the healthcare landscape. Through her experiences, she offers a source of inspiration and guidance for others in the industry, encouraging them to embrace change and challenge the norm in their journeys.

Inspiration and Balance Beyond Leadership

Outside of her professional life, Anu finds balance and inspiration through her passions for running and trekking. As a wellness advocate, she embraces these activities as a way to stay grounded and connect with nature, drawing strength and clarity from each journey. These personal pursuits infuse her leadership with a sense of purpose and vitality, reminding her of the importance of holistic well-being in achieving success.

Impact and Inspiration: The Role of Voice of Healthcare; Her Views…

Voice of Healthcare plays a crucial role in highlighting the stories and journeys of leaders, who are reshaping the healthcare landscape. Through tribute profiles such as "Idea Leaders," VOH showcases the achievements of individuals who are making a difference, providing inspiration and direction for the broader community. By sharing these experiences, VOH helps to collectively drive innovation and foster a culture of continuous improvement in healthcare.

Advancing Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Lung cancer remains the most common cancer worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being the most prevalent subtype, accounting for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. Alarmingly, one-third of NSCLC patients are diagnosed at Stage III or Stage IV, where the disease has already progressed significantly. At this advanced stage, oncologists face the critical challenge of swiftly identifying the most effective treatment options without the luxury of time for trial and error.

The Role of Personalized Medicine 

Personalized medicine offers a beacon of hope in these scenarios. The ability to detect the exact mutation causing the cancer in a patient and select a targeted, specific treatment is crucial.

Currently, identifying these mutations requires a series of comprehensive tests, including immunohistochemistry (IHC), reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS), and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The process of conducting these tests, analyzing the vast amounts of data, and extracting meaningful information is time-consuming and often delays the initiation of optimal treatment.

Prevalence and Diagnosis: NSCLC accounts for 85% of all lung cancer cases, with one-third diagnosed at Stage III or IV.

Critical Challenge: Oncologists must quickly identify effective treatment options without trial and error.

Personalized Medicine: Detecting the exact mutation and selecting targeted treatments is crucial.

Innovative Solutions: Kriya Medical Technologies is committed to delivering rapid and reliable diagnostic solutions.

Kriya's Commitment to Innovation

Kriya Medical Technologies, a thought leader in the diagnostics space, recognizes the urgency of this issue and is committed to revolutionizing lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our cutting-edge technologies are designed to deliver clinically meaningful information in the shortest time possible, ensuring that patients receive prompt and effective care.

Rapid Diagnostic Solutions

Our Research and Development (R&D) team is at the forefront of this innovation, dedicating their time, energy, and expertise to develop rapid diagnostic solutions. These solutions aim to streamline the detection of cancer-causing mutations, reducing the time from diagnosis to treatment. By integrating advanced diagnostic techniques into a single, efficient platform, we aspire to provide oncologists with the tools they need to make informed treatment decisions quickly.

Accessibility and Affordability

At Kriya Medical Technologies, we are not only focused on technological advancements but also on making these innovations accessible and affordable. Our goal is to bridge the gap in cancer diagnostics, ensuring that every patient has the opportunity to receive personalized, effective treatment in a timely manner. 

Commitment to Excellence

As we continue to push the boundaries of diagnostic science, our commitment remains steadfast: to advance the care of lung cancer patients through innovative, rapid, and reliable diagnostic solutions. With Kriya's dedication to excellence and our unwavering focus on patient outcomes, we are poised to transform the landscape of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, providing hope and improved survival rates for patients worldwide.

About The Organization - SUT Hospital: Pioneering Healthcare Excellence

Pattom Sree Uthradam Thirunal (SUT) Hospital has been a beacon of modern healthcare in Thiruvananthapuram since 1987, founded by eminent cardiologist Dr. C Bharath Chandran. Under Chairman B R Shetty, SUT has become a leading multi-specialty hospital known for tertiary and quaternary care. CEO Col. Rajeev Mannali emphasizes their commitment to affordable, high-quality healthcare, maintaining treatment costs despite economic challenges. SUT's 30 specialty departments, numerous awards, and status as a training center highlight its role in advancing healthcare excellence.

Col. Rajeev Mannali: From Battlefield to Lifesaver

Col. Rajeev Mannali, CEO of SUT Pattom Hospital, humorously reflects on his journey: "I was trained to kill but now find myself doing just the opposite – helping save lives." His remarkable transition from a decorated military career to a pioneering healthcare leader is a testament to his dedication and adaptability.

Academic and Professional Training

Col. Mannali's journey began at Sainik School in 1966 at the age of 11. His leadership skills were evident early on as he served as a School Prefect, House Captain, and Under Officer in the NCC. At 17, he joined the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), where he completed his training and earned a degree from Jawaharlal Nehru University in 1975. Commissioned into the Cavalry in 1976 after intensive training at the Indian Military Academy, Col. Mannali's early experiences laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

A Soldier's Journey from Battlegrounds to Lifesaving

Col. Mannali's military career is marked by valor and leadership. As a Squadron Commander (Major) in the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF), he played a pivotal role in active operations in Sri Lanka. His distinguished service spanned over 33 years, including key roles such as Chief Logistics Officer in Jammu & Kashmir and Grade I Staff Officer (Operations) in Corps HQ in Tezpur, actively involved in counter-insurgency operations.

Commanding the 13 Armored Regiment during the Kargil War, Col. Mannali was tasked with thwarting enemy attacks and spearheading counteroffensives. His post-command tenure as Director (Foreign Division) in Military Intelligence showcased his diplomatic acumen, fostering Army-to-Army relations globally. Heading Tactical & Strategic Studies at the School of Armored Warfare, he shaped the training of Armored Corps Officers up to the rank of Lt. Col. Superannuating in 2009, he left a legacy of service and leadership in the Indian Army.

A Lifelong Journey of Healing and Service

Col. Rajeev Mannali's transition to healthcare was marked by transformative leadership. As CEO and Managing Director of Bahuleyan Charitable Foundation, he revitalized a hospital and established colleges of nursing and physiotherapy into premier institutions. His innovative initiatives extended beyond healthcare, founding a Women's Self-Help Group and a Youth Wing, significantly impacting societal development. His commitment earned him the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation Award for Excellence in Healthcare Management.

Moving to Vellore, he led Sri Narayan Hospital and Research Centre, which won national acclaim as the 'Most Charitably Oriented Hospital’ in 2014 at AHPIs National Conclave. Joining Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, he expedited the commissioning of the CMC Chittoor Complex, showcasing his efficiency and leadership.

As Executive Director of Sree Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences (SNIMS), he elevated the institution academically, fostering excellent relationships with medical authorities. In 2018, Col. Mannali undertook the challenge of reviving Sree Uthradam Thirunal (SUT) Super Specialty Hospital, turning it around within two and a half years and taking it to new heights of excellence. His impactful leadership garnered recognition from 'Ayurarogyam' and 'Kalakaumudi,' acknowledging his comprehensive contribution to healthcare management. Col. Rajeev Mannali, was honored by Hon. Governor Shri Arif Mohammed Khan during the Kerala Kaumudi Legacy Makers Award function held in Trivandrum on 10th July 2024

A Multifaceted Luminary

On 11th July 2024, Col. Rajeev Mannali was awarded CEO of the Year during the National Awards for Excellence in Healthcare. Beyond his remarkable achievements, he is a prolific thinker, writer, and speaker on healthcare and societal issues. His extensive collection of articles and talks, accessible on www.colrajeevmannali.com, reflects his passion for work and unwavering commitment to achieving exemplary standards in every endeavor. 

Col. Rajeev Mannali stands as a beacon of excellence, seamlessly transitioning from a decorated military career to a transformative force in healthcare leadership. His journey continues to epitomize dedication, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to healing and societal upliftment, making him a true multifaceted luminary.

Project Highlight: Transforming Healthcare at SUT Hospital

Under the visionary leadership of CEO Col. Rajeev Mannali, SUT Hospital is establishing four Centers of Excellence in Neurosciences, Cardiac Sciences, Mother & Child Care, and Orthopedics. This ambitious project involves expanding facilities, implementing cutting-edge technology, and launching new academic and research programs. The goal is to enhance specialized care, focus on continuing medical education, and foster innovation in these critical fields.

The Importance of VOH and Idea Leaders

Platforms like VOH and initiatives such as ‘Idea Leaders’ profiles play a crucial role in the healthcare community. They share experiences and insights, inspire innovation, and drive excellence, adding direction and positive energy to the field.

Mr. Amit Tickoo serves as Vice President of Cardiology and Respiratory Sales at Schiller Healthcare India Pvt. Ltd. He oversees business growth in the Cardiorespiratory Sales division, focusing on both channel partners and direct sales. His role includes cultivating Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) to understand market needs and future trends. With 18 years in the cardiac care industry, Mr. Amit brings extensive experience and leadership to Schiller Healthcare India Pvt. Ltd.

The cardiac care industry is advancing towards paperless technology, integrating devices with hospital-based data systems like PACS, EMR, and DICOM. This integration enhances efficiency and patient care by enabling remote access to critical reports. Innovations in ambulatory ECG devices, with up to 14-day recordings and specialized algorithms for athletes' ECGs, are improving diagnostic accuracy. However, introducing new cardiology technologies faces challenges in shifting end-user mindsets. Schiller Healthcare India Pvt. Ltd addresses this through workshops with cardiologists, highlighting innovations' benefits in diagnostics and clinical practice, bridging the gap between technology and practical application for optimal patient outcomes.

Their marketing strategies at Schiller Healthcare India Pvt. Ltd focus on nationwide reach through diverse online and offline channels. As cardiovascular diseases rise in India, particularly beyond Tier I cities, the cardiac market shows promising growth in interventional and diagnostic cardiology.

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, "Patience and self-belief are key in the medical sales industry. Building strong customer relationships is crucial, fostering confidence and driving sales. The cardiac care field offers vast opportunities for professionals committed to excellence and innovation."

Mr. Ashwini Singh serves as the Sales & Marketing Director at Star Medtech Solutions Pvt Ltd. With 16 years dedicated to Cardiac Care Medical Devices and a total of 24 years in the healthcare sector, Mr. Ashwini focuses on devising global strategies tailored for the Indian market to ensure the best products benefit patients.

"In today's cardiac care industry, marketing and communication are increasingly focused on global strategies adapted for local needs. One of the key challenges we face is influencing user mindsets, as patients seek the best available products. In India, where medical professionals are highly respected, patients prioritize quality alongside affordability. Our approach involves close collaboration with hospitals, doctors, and support staff, emphasizing the scientific benefits of our products. Comprehensive pricing strategies not only address immediate costs but also promote long-term savings through reduced readmissions, enhancing patient quality of life. Government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat are pivotal, reflecting increasing public sector participation and support.

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, "Our challenge is meeting patient expectations for the best products affordably. Collaboration with hospitals and doctors, focusing on long-term benefits, is essential. Government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat are a positive step forward."

Pritam Dhalla founded Larkai Healthcare in 2020 in Bhubaneswar, focusing on innovative medtech solutions bridging diagnosis and treatment. Their flagship product, WREN, is an IoT-connected monitor enabling remote patient monitoring, complemented by Bluetail, an AI-powered SaaS platform for detecting cardiopulmonary diseases. With an MTech in Biotechnology and over six years in R&D, Pritam brings a global perspective to healthcare innovation, driving Larkai Healthcare's vision.

His leadership as the technical head has been instrumental in shaping the company's vision and driving innovative healthcare solutions. Recognized by the Indian government as a Meity Tide 2.0 grantee and DST NIDHI EIR fellow, Pritam combines global insights with scientific rigor to address real-world healthcare challenges.

Mr. Abhilash Chakraverty, the co-founder, is a double Master's in MBA & Economics. His outstanding experience in international marketing balances this focus with a keen eye on market needs ensuring Larkai's solutions are user-friendly and culturally relevant for global adoption. This balanced approach minimizes the risk of developing solutions that are technically impressive but lack market fit. With shared vision, by combining the passion for using technology to revolutionize healthcare with dedication to bringing innovative solutions to market, we create a powerful synergy that propels Larkai forward.

Larkai Healthcare navigates the challenge of balancing global innovation trends with India's specific market needs. Our startup status demands agile responses to fast-evolving trends and overcoming resistance to change in the healthcare sector. We prioritize data security, seamless integration with existing systems, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Despite these challenges, our commitment to accessible healthcare drives us to innovate proactively and mitigate risks strategically. 

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, “Research niche markets, understand regulatory landscapes, and build technical skills. Network to form partnerships, differentiate through unique propositions, and adapt to industry dynamics for success.”

Dr. Aditya Jawalia serves as the General Manager of Marketing for the Cardiovascular Division at Meril Life Sciences, overseeing strategic business development and marketing initiatives across India and the Sub-Continent. With over 13 years in the healthcare industry, he has excelled in roles across sales, marketing, project management, and business development, consistently transforming portfolios into profitable entities. He manages Meril's 250 crore Structural Heart Portfolio and leads the promotion of TAVI therapy through the innovative Myval THV bio-prosthetic heart valve.

The cardiac care industry is rapidly evolving with digital transformation at its core. Key trends include the adoption of digital platforms, VR-enabled therapy information, online patient portals, and remote monitoring devices. Emphasis is on patient-centered care, leveraging advanced analytics and big data for personalized marketing, and utilizing content marketing and social media for patient engagement.

A major challenge in cardiac care is the adoption of novel therapies, he addresses this through awareness campaigns, strategic partnerships with smaller hospitals, and government collaborations. By engaging opinion leaders, leveraging traditional media, and fostering cross-specialization collaboration, Meril Life Sciences, India ensures widespread access to advanced treatments. Dr. Jawalia aims to raise awareness about innovative therapies, improve cardiologists' skills, and enhance patient engagement. The future of cardiac care marketing will see more AI, telemedicine, and data analytics, focusing on preventive care and personalized marketing, with cross-sector collaboration and patient data security as key priorities.

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, “Aspiring marketers in the cardiac care industry should combine medical knowledge with management skills. The industry offers numerous opportunities, especially with the rise of homegrown cardiac device companies and global medical device firms recognizing Indian talent. Embracing technology and AI will be crucial in this dynamic field.”

Dr. Raonak Karnde serves as the Medical Lead in the Medical and Patient Affairs department at Servier India. He oversees clinical trials, ensures ethical standards, and develops support programs to enhance treatment adherence and improve patient outcomes.

The cardiac care industry leverages digital platforms to engage with healthcare professionals and patients. Key trends include personalized content marketing, social media engagement, and data-driven strategies using big data and AI. Challenges include navigating regulatory compliance to protect patient data privacy. Innovative strategies involve holistic care programs, robust educational content, and partnerships with key opinion leaders to amplify reach and credibility.

 Medico-marketing efforts aim to enhance patient outcomes, strengthen healthcare professional engagement, and raise awareness about cardiac conditions. The future will see more integration with digital health solutions and a focus on holistic patient care. Medical affairs play a crucial role in bridging clinical and commercial functions, ensuring ethical and scientifically accurate marketing. The future of cardiac care depends on maintaining ethical practices and leveraging innovative technologies to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Karnde is confident that effective strategies will enhance patient health in India.

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, “Aspiring professionals should stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in both the medical and marketing fields. Networking with industry professionals, including healthcare professionals and key opinion leaders, is crucial. Gaining proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms is essential, as is understanding the regulatory landscape and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and guidelines.”

Mr. Sanjeev Mehra serves as the Senior Manager - Patient Centricity at AstraZeneca India. He is responsible for developing and activating patient-centric programs aimed at improving overall patient outcomes through awareness, diagnosis, and wellness initiatives. Mr. Sanjeev has been with AstraZeneca for 15 years, collaborating with major healthcare organizations in cardiology.

The healthcare industry is shifting towards holistic, patient-centered care, with a focus on direct communication from illness to wellness. However, challenges persist, including gaps in patient awareness and diagnostic access. Many cardiac health issues are misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed, leading to avoidable emergencies. Post-hospitalization care and patient compliance also need improvement. A collaborative effort among doctors, hospitals, pharma companies, and the health tech sector is essential to create patient-centric tools for holistic care throughout the patient journey.

AstraZeneca has developed industry-leading patient-centric programs to address these unmet needs. Through social media handles like Heart Mitra, they connect with millions to spread awareness about cardiac health. Their Healthtech diagnosis program, HeartBeat, supports diagnosis for 100,000 severe chest pain patients annually in remote locations across the country. AstraZeneca was recognized as the Best Patient-Centric Company in 2023 and featured in the Global Sustainability Index for providing equitable healthcare access to cardiac patients.

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, "Stay committed to bridging gaps in patient awareness and access through innovative, patient-centric strategies. Embrace collaboration across healthcare sectors to ensure holistic care from illness to wellness."

Rajat Jain is the Founder and CEO of Sunfox Technologies, leading the company in making heart care accessible through innovative technology. He oversees the development and operation of Spandan ECG, a portable device providing quick, hospital-grade heart checkups to empower doctors and patients. With eight years dedicated to cardiac care, Rajat's journey began in his small village, where he saw the challenges of delayed healthcare. He co-founded Sunfox Technologies with friends after college to address these gaps.

Post-COVID, awareness of heart health has increased, with more people using wearables for monitoring. Social media and digital channels are crucial for spreading awareness and facilitating remote care. Personalized, data-driven care is the focus. Challenges include delays in diagnosis, especially in rural areas, and high costs. Sunfox's Spandan ECG addresses these with a portable, affordable, and accurate device, reducing cardiac checkup costs by over 80% and achieving a 99.76% accuracy rate.

Sunfox's patient-centric programs have significantly improved cardiac care. In rural areas, over 50,000 people have benefited from timely diagnostics, while in urban areas, Spandan has reduced ECG waiting times from weeks to minutes. Through innovative technology and a people-first approach, Rajat Jain and Sunfox Technologies are transforming global cardiac care, enhancing early diagnosis and patient engagement.

Message For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, "For aspiring professionals in cardiac care marketing, remember: innovation doesn't always require complexity. Simple solutions can make a profound impact. Embrace frugal innovation, prioritize accessibility, and leverage digital platforms to reach and educate broader audiences. Together, we can revolutionize cardiac care and save lives worldwide."