Dr. Prathap C Reddy
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy is a renowned Indian cardiologist and visionary healthcare entrepreneur, best known as the founder and chairman of Apollo Hospitals, India’s first corporate hospital chain. Widely regarded as the architect of modern private healthcare in India, he has revolutionized access to world-class medical services in the country.[1]
| Dr. Prathap C. Reddy | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | February 5, 1933 Aragonda, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Alma mater | Stanley Medical College, University of Madras Massachusetts General Hospital, USA |
| Occupation | Cardiologist, entrepreneur, philanthropist |
| Known for | Founder of Apollo Hospitals |
| Awards | Padma Bhushan (1991), Padma Vibhushan (2010), Lions Humanitarian Award (2018) |
| Spouse | Sucharitha Reddy |
| Children | 4 daughters – Preetha, Sangita, Suneeta, Shobana |
Early Life and Education
Born on February 5, 1933, in Aragonda, Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Reddy pursued medicine at Stanley Medical College in Chennai. Seeking advanced medical training, he went abroad to specialize in cardiology, completing fellowships in the United Kingdom and United States, including one at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.
While working in the U.S. and conducting research at the Missouri State Chest Hospital, he was deeply moved by stories of Indian patients struggling to afford treatment overseas. This inspired his return to India to build a better domestic healthcare system.[2]
Founding Apollo Hospitals
In 1983, Dr. Reddy founded Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, introducing India’s first corporate hospital model. His mission was to provide affordable, world-class healthcare within India, eliminating the need for citizens to travel abroad for quality treatment.
Today, Apollo has grown into a healthcare empire with:
- Over 70 hospitals
- Numerous clinics, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers
- Presence in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa[3]
Innovations and Contributions
Telemedicine
Dr. Reddy pioneered telemedicine in India with a pilot in his native village of Aragonda in 2000. Today, Apollo’s telehealth network serves remote and underserved regions.
Health Insurance
In 2007, he helped launch a joint venture with DKV AG to offer health insurance, expanding financial access to medical care for millions of Indians.[4]
Proton Therapy Centre
In 2019, Apollo Hospitals launched South Asia’s first Proton Therapy Centre in Chennai for advanced cancer treatment, reinforcing Dr. Reddy’s commitment to innovation.
Awards and Recognition
- Padma Bhushan (1991) – Third-highest civilian award in India
- Padma Vibhushan (2010) – India’s second-highest civilian honor
- Lions Humanitarian Award (2018) – International recognition for philanthropy
- IMA Lifetime Achievement Award (2022) – Honored by the Indian Medical Association
Personal Life
Dr. Reddy is married to Sucharitha Reddy. His four daughters—Preetha, Sangita, Suneeta, and Shobana—are actively involved in Apollo’s operations, ensuring continuity of his legacy.[5]
Legacy
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy has redefined Indian healthcare by combining medical excellence with business acumen and social responsibility. His model has inspired other corporate hospitals and transformed India into a destination for affordable and quality medical tourism. Through his innovations, leadership, and philanthropic initiatives, he remains a towering figure in global healthcare.
References
- ↑ https://www.business-standard.com/budget/news/budget-launchpad-for-our-health-sector-as-global-leader-apollo-hospitals-125020101506_1.html
- ↑ https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/apollo-hospitals-reports-63-growth-in-profit-after-tax/articleshow/115022705.cms
- ↑ https://www.cnbctv18.com/market/stocks/apollo-hospitals-share-price-cancer-treatment-to-invest-rs-250-crore-in-india-first-proteus-one-proton-therapy-system-hyderabad-19568367.htm
- ↑ https://www.expresshealthcare.in/news/apollo-hospitals-partners-with-iba-to-introduce-proteus-one-proton-therapy-in-india/448270/
- ↑ https://zeenews.india.com/photos/business/meet-91-year-old-who-goes-to-office-daily-owns-71-hospitals-and-5000-pharmacy-outlets-know-his-impressive-net-worth-2810804