When it comes to heart care in India, Dr. Sarita Rao stands out as one of the best female cardiologists, making waves in the field of interventional cardiology. With over two decades of experience, she has not only achieved remarkable milestones but also paved the way for future generations of women in medicine. As the Senior Interventional Cardiologist and Director of the Cathlab at Apollo Hospitals, Indore, Dr. Rao’s contributions to cardiovascular care have earned her a well-deserved reputation as a trailblazer.

Pioneering Achievements

Dr. Sarita Rao is a name synonymous with “firsts” in Indian cardiology. She was the first female cardiologist in India to perform advanced procedures like Renal Denervation and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) during live cases across the SAARC countries. Her innovative spirit led her to introduce the Shockwave Lithotripsy IVL Procedure and to be the first woman to use the advanced ROTAPRO system in India.

Moreover, Dr. Rao was the pioneer behind the first Hybrid Aortic Aneurysm procedure and IMPELLA Surgery in Central India. Her expertise covers a wide range of complex heart interventions, from coronary procedures to congenital heart interventions, making her a true leader in the field. Dr. Rao’s pioneering efforts have significantly advanced the practice of cardiology in India and the SAARC countries, improving the lives of countless patients and setting new benchmarks in heart care.

Recognized Excellence

Dr. Sarita Rao’s outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous prestigious awards, reinforcing her status as the best female cardiologist in India. Some of her accolades include the Paul Dudley White International Scholar Award from the American Heart Association, the Times Health Excellence Award in Healthcare, the ICON of Cardiology Award, and the Healthcare Pioneer Award.

In addition to these, Dr. Rao has been honored with the Devi Ma Ahilya Naari Alankaran award, Dr. S. K. Mukherjee award, Nai Duniya Chikitsa Samman, and the Sewa Samman Award. Her research and academic work have also earned her the Distinguished Clinical Tutor Award from AHERF and the Apollo Hospitals group. Dr. Rao’s prolific contributions to medical research include over 100 published articles and manuscripts in leading journals, further solidifying her influence in the world of cardiology.

Leadership and Mentorship

Beyond her clinical skills, Dr. Rao is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of cardiologists. She made history as the first female Fellowship Director for the International Interventional Cardiology Fellows (WIN-APSIC) at Apollo Hospitals, Indore. Her leadership extends to her role as President of Women in Cardiology and Related Sciences (WINCARS), where she advocates for more women in cardiology.

Dr. Rao is also the Co-Chairperson for the EAPCI International Affairs Board and serves as a board member of the Cardiological Society of India Pink Council and Women in Interventional Cardiology. Her efforts have significantly narrowed the gender gap in cardiology, inspiring many women to pursue careers in this challenging field. Her mentorship and leadership are key reasons she is recognized as one of the best female cardiologists in the country.

Global Influence

Dr. Sarita Rao’s impact isn’t limited to India. She is an esteemed Invited Faculty at prestigious international cardiology conferences, including TCT in San Francisco, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress in Amsterdam, EUROPCR in Paris, and TCTAP in Seoul, Korea. Her expertise has also been featured at Gulf PCR in Dubai, the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) in Phoenix, the European Bifurcation Club (EBC) meeting in Poland, Singapore Live, the SINERGY conference in Serbia, CVIT in Japan, and the ATS International Summit in Athens, Greece.

Additionally, Dr. Rao’s expertise has been sought at the National Heart Foundation Conference in Bangladesh and the AICT Asia PCR in Singapore, underscoring her global impact on cardiology. Her presence on these international platforms highlights her as a respected figure on the world stage.

Community Care and Awareness

Dr. Rao’s commitment to heart health goes beyond the hospital walls. She has been instrumental in raising public awareness about heart health, conducting Basic Life Support (BLS) training and public awareness campaigns that have reached over 100,000 people. Her involvement in the “Billions Heart Beating” campaign, where she supports 10 old age homes with free medicines and health checkups, exemplifies her dedication to community care.

These initiatives have collectively improved the lives of millions in Central India, extending her influence far beyond the clinical setting and contributing to the overall betterment of public health. Her work is not just limited to surgeries and procedures; it extends into the community, where she continuously strives to make a difference.

Dr. Sarita Rao is more than just a cardiologist; she is a pioneer, a mentor, and a leader. Her groundbreaking work in interventional cardiology, coupled with her commitment to mentoring and community service, cements her status as India’s best female cardiologist. Dr. Rao’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations of women in medicine, setting new standards in heart care both in India and beyond.