Charu Bhatia, Senior New Editor, Business Remedies, in conversation with Dr. Shivraj Singh Rathore, Founder of Marudhar Hospital
From travelling across Rajasthan’s small towns to building a trusted multi-specialty healthcare institution in Jaipur, Dr. Shivraj Singh Rathore, Founder of Marudhar Hospital, has carved a career defined by resilience, service and adaptability. A paediatrician by training, Dr. Rathore’s journey spans decades of hands-on clinical practice, entrepreneurial risks and deep engagement with the medical community. Having started with limited resources and extensive fieldwork, he gradually built Marudhar Hospital into a key healthcare destination on Jaipur’s Khatipura Road, catering to patients from across the state. In this interview, Dr. Rathore reflects on his professional evolution, the challenges of running a hospital in today’s regulatory and economic environment, the shifting dynamics of doctor–patient relationships, and the growing role of technology in shaping the future of healthcare.
Q: You have established a hospital in Jaipur that caters to patients from across Rajasthan. Could you tell us about your journey so far?
A: My educational journey has been fairly diverse. I studied in multiple schools across India and also spent some time in Singapore. I completed my MBBS from Jodhpur, followed by post-graduation in Paediatrics. Initially, I had plans to practice medicine in the US, but due to family commitments, I decided to continue my medical career in Rajasthan. I belong to Kuchaman city.
Before establishing Marudhar Hospital in Jaipur, I worked across several clinics. Back in 1997, I even handled delivery cases and would travel extensively, sometimes up to Kuchaman city, covering multiple towns and villages in a single day to diagnose patients. On average, I attended nearly 150 patients daily across different locations.
In 1998, I started with a modest 10-bed facility. By 2000, we established a 50-bed Marudhar Hospital on Khatipura Road, Jaipur. I also went on to start a nursing college and a hospital in my hometown, Kuchaman. Additionally, I started a nursing college in Jaipur too. Until 2010, I explored various business ventures, though they did not yield much success. Post-Covid, I returned fully to medical practice and have been working relentlessly since. Alongside this, my wife runs few dental centres and a cosmetic centre.
Q: Establishing a hospital is no easy task. What challenges did you face during this journey?
A: The challenges have been numerous and continue even today. One major issue is related to medical insurance claims, which often affect healthcare providers adversely. While government health schemes have made treatment accessible for the masses, managing hospital finances has become increasingly difficult. Inflation rises by nearly five percent annually, employee salaries by around ten percent, but hospital revenues largely remain fixed.
Additionally, hospitals must obtain multiple licenses, making compliance a lengthy and cumbersome process. Maintaining quality standards for achieving NABH accreditation also require significant financial investment. Balancing regulatory requirements, patient care, and financial sustainability makes running a hospital extremely challenging.
Q: What inspired and inspire you to pursue medicine?
A: In my early years, I actively participated in and organized several medical camps, many of which provided free treatment to patients. That experience deeply inspired me. I also served as the Secretary of the Jaipur Medical Association, where I was involved in organizing cultural initiatives and professional events.
One such initiative is the Doctors’ Premier League, which includes multiple teams, even a legends team comprising senior doctors. Over 500 doctors participate, with around 60 percent from Jaipur and the rest from outside. These collective efforts motivate us to continually improve our medical practice.
Q: How do you see the role of AI and robotics in the future of medicine?
A: Artificial Intelligence has immense potential in healthcare, especially in data storage and patient record management. We are currently working on an AI-based, paperless system that can store and process patient information efficiently. Ideally, such systems can generate a list of possible diagnoses and treatment options based on a patient’s symptoms.
Robotics, on the other hand, can significantly improve surgical outcomes. Robotic-assisted procedures reduce blood loss, enhance precision, and minimize the chances of human error, ultimately benefiting patient recovery.
Q: How has the doctor–patient relationship changed over time?
A: Earlier, doctors were held in high regard. Today, that respect has diminished. Patients often react immediately if outcomes do not meet expectations, sometimes becoming confrontational. Such reactions can damage the reputation of both doctors and healthcare institutions, even when medical complications are unavoidable.
Q: How has Covid-19 altered people’s perception of health and life?
A: Post-Covid, people have begun valuing life more deeply. There is a greater emphasis on enjoying life, travelling, and consciously investing in personal health and well-being.
Q: Where does Rajasthan stand in terms of healthcare services compared to other states?
A: Rajasthan ranks among the top ten states in healthcare services. SMS Hospital, Jaipur is all set to become one of the biggest hospitals in the country. However, there is still significant scope for improvement. Cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad remain ahead in healthcare infrastructure and delivery.
Q: What is your view on government-run health schemes?
A: These schemes are extremely beneficial for patients, especially the economically weaker sections, as they reduce the financial burden because they are cashless. However, for hospitals, providing quality healthcare at such low fixed rates is challenging. The additional costs are ultimately borne by the hospital. Moreover, these schemes place all hospitals, small clinics and large corporate hospitals, on the same pricing level, which is not always practical.
Q: What is your future vision for the hospital? Do you plan to expand?
A: At present, we are not focusing on expanding hospital branches. However, I do intend to expand our cosmetic and dental centres and health services in that segment.
Q: What message would you like to give to young medical aspirants?
A: I would advise young aspirants to remain stress-free and disciplined. Having a clear vision is crucial. They must stay updated with new technologies and techniques while developing strong clinical acumen. Dedication and continuous learning are the most important qualities for anyone aspiring to succeed in the medical profession.
