With over 15 years of experience at Medanta Medicity, Ashok Bourothu has played a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless transition of the hospital from its inception to its current operational excellence. Renowned for his expertise in engineering and project management, Ashok is committed to maintaining critical infrastructure while prioritizing patient safety. His leadership principles emphasize teamwork, root cause analysis, and long-term solutions. Aspiring to become a Corporate Chief Technical Officer, Ashok envisions leading technical operations across multiple healthcare institutions, leveraging innovation and collaboration to enhance maintenance strategies and foster a safe, patient-centric environment.
How did your passion for engineering and project management develop over the years?
I have been associated with Medanta Medicity for 15 years, since its inception. When I took over, the hospital was new, and managing maintenance was challenging. Transitioning from the project phase to operational readiness presented hurdles, as some equipment was partially installed, with teething problems to address. The maintenance phase demanded meticulous attention to ensuring seamless operation and patient safety. Efforts focused on preventing inconvenience, infection risks, or environmental hazards. Critical systems like air-conditioning in patient areas, operating theatres, and ICUs were prioritized to uphold care standards. This period shaped my passion for engineering and project management, reinforcing my commitment to operational excellence and highlighting their role in creating a safe, efficient, patient-centric environment.
How do you balance being adventurous and a risk-taker while maintaining a structured project approach?
Maintaining a 15-story hospital like Medanta Medicity requires a structured project approach due to its diverse specialties and varied requirements. Each area demands specific conditions, such as tailored air conditioning, humidity control, and specialized maintenance processes. While structured, this work also embodies a sense of adventure, as patient safety allows no room for error or risk. Every decision ensures an environment supporting optimal care without compromising health. Balancing this involves collaborating with doctors to meet their requirements and adapt to unique patient conditions. This dynamic approach ensures seamless infrastructure while adhering to the highest safety and care standards.
Can you explain your method for ensuring seamless project execution from conception to handover?
Ensuring seamless project execution from conception to handover in a complex hospital environment requires a systematic, detailed approach. Whenever a “snag” arises whether in electrical systems, air conditioning, water circulation, hot water, or space heating it undergoes thorough root cause analysis. This process identifies the issue and develops a comprehensive solution. For instance, if a problem occurs in one patient area, the same solution is implemented across all 1,250 beds to ensure consistency and reliability. Each issue is treated as a project, planned meticulously, and executed efficiently to uphold the highest standards of patient care and safety. This structured approach ensures all systems function seamlessly throughout the hospital.
What leadership principles have guided you throughout your career?
The leadership principles that have guided me throughout my career are rooted in thoroughness, collaboration, and a focus on patient safety. Every task or issue requires a detailed root cause analysis to identify and prevent recurrence, ensuring long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes. Equally important is fostering a strong team dynamic. I prioritize involving the team in every step of the process, ensuring they fully understand the gravity of the situation, particularly when it pertains to patient safety. By emphasizing teamwork and accountability, we can achieve sustainable outcomes and uphold the highest standards of care.
How do you handle conflicts or differing opinions within your team during complex projects?
Handling conflicts or differing opinions within a team is a natural part of managing complex projects. I believe in fostering an environment where all team members feel valued and their opinions are respected. To address differing viewpoints, I encourage open discussions during team briefings. This ensures that every perspective is heard and considered before making any decisions. I don’t believe in a top-down approach; instead, I take a collaborative stance where the team’s collective input shapes the project’s direction. Additionally, I assign a team member as the in-charge for specific projects. This not only builds their confidence but also reinforces trust and cohesion within the team. By empowering individuals and promoting open communication, we navigate challenges effectively and maintain harmony throughout the project.
Where do you see yourself in the next decade, and how do you plan to achieve those goals?
In the next decade, I envision myself serving as a VP & Head of Engineering, leveraging my expertise to lead technical and maintenance operations across multiple healthcare institutions. My goal is to offer consultancy services to organizations, ensuring optimal maintenance strategies and prioritizing patient safety. To achieve this, I plan to continually enhance my skills, stay updated on the latest advancements in healthcare technology, and build a strong network within the industry. By focusing on innovation, collaboration, and effective leadership, I aim to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector, fostering operational excellence and improved patient care.
