Leading Change: Empowering Women's Leadership

As I reflect on International Women's Day, I am compelled to address a topic that is close to my heart: the glaring gender disparities within India's healthcare sector. As a surgical oncologist with over two decades of experience, I have had the privilege of witnessing countless women defy the odds and conquer cancer with unwavering strength and resilience. These women, just like their male counterparts, navigate the complexities of treatment with grace and fortitude, proving time and again that gender is no barrier to triumph over adversity.

Yet, despite the remarkable achievements of women, we cannot ignore the sobering reality that they continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions. This observation is not merely anecdotal; recent reports indicate that women occupy a mere 18% of leadership roles in India's healthcare sector, earning significantly less than their male counterparts.

I firmly believe that achieving gender parity goes beyond mere representation; it is about ensuring that women have equal opportunities to contribute meaningfully and be included in decision-making processes on a daily basis. Too often, women may hold leadership titles but find themselves sidelined when it comes to pivotal decisions that shape the direction of their organizations.

In my career, I have been fortunate to work in environments that prioritize inclusivity and empower women to thrive. At Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road, we have cultivated a culture that values diverse perspectives and fosters collaboration at every level.

However, I have also witnessed firsthand the biases that persist within our healthcare system, where the head of the family, often male, predominantly dictates the choice of doctor for their family members. This tendency frequently leans towards selecting male doctors, reinforcing traditional gender roles in decision-making processes.

This International Women's Day, let's not merely pay lip service to the idea of gender equality. Let us commit to dismantling the systemic barriers that hinder women's advancement in healthcare. It is time to challenge the status quo and advocate for tangible changes that ensure every woman has a seat at the table, where our voice is heard and our contributions are valued.

The road ahead may be daunting, but I am optimistic that together, we can create a healthcare sector that celebrates the diverse talents and experiences of women. Let's harness the collective power of our voices to drive meaningful change and pave the way for a more inclusive future.

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