Transforming Cancer Care: Dr. Indoo Ammbulkar’s Journey of Dedication and Innovation

In the ever-evolving field of medical oncology, where each day presents new challenges and opportunities for breakthroughs, Dr. Indoo Ammbulkar stands out as a beacon of dedication, innovation, and compassion. As the Director of Medical Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre in Borivali, Mumbai, Dr. Ammbulkar has dedicated over two decades to the tireless pursuit of improving cancer treatment and patient care. Her journey from a promising medical student to one of India's leading oncologists is not only a testament to her professional prowess but also a reflection of her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her patients.

Dr. Ammbulkar’s career is marked by her pioneering spirit and her willingness to break barriers. In an era when female oncologists were a rarity, she emerged as a trailblazer, overcoming numerous obstacles to make a significant impact in the field. Her dedication to her patients goes beyond the confines of clinical treatment, as she has played a pivotal role in advocating for early cancer detection, affordable treatment options, and comprehensive patient care.

Her work is not confined to the walls of the hospital. Dr. Ammbulkar is a prolific contributor to medical literature, a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, and an active participant in community outreach programs. Her efforts have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Distinguished Service Award from the Indian Society of Geriatric Medicine and the Global Healthcare Excellence Award for Best Oncologist and Hematologist.

In this article, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dr. Indoo Ammbulkar, exploring the challenges she has faced, the achievements she has garnered, and the profound impact she continues to make in the field of oncology. Through her story, we gain insight into the qualities that define a true medical pioneer and the visionary steps needed to advance cancer care in India.

Introduction:

Dr.Indoo Ammbulkar, Director of Medical Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali Mumbai she is into practice for 20 years treating cancer patients with passion. Her journey into the world of medical oncology began with her selection for a central government job through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) after completing her MBBS and MD in General Medicine. Her initial posting in Mumbai provided her with the opportunity to train in Medical Oncology during her government service. It was here that she found her calling. Driven by a deep-seated passion for treating cancer patients, she made the bold decision to leave her secure government job to pursue specialized training in oncology, a field she was increasingly drawn to.

There were very few female oncologists about 20 years back. It was challenging also. It gave her encouragement when she started treating cancer patients who became cured of cancer and became survivors. Talking about her past patients she Many young patients would study during their cancer treatment, got good marks, and some of them are doing very well in their careers, Many of them are long-term survivors and living happily. She keeps conducting survivor meets for cancer survivors to motivate and encourage them to live a normal life and explore their talents.

Challenges and Achievements:

Talking about her challenges she feels that none of the cancer patients should be denied treatment irrespective of socioeconomic strata. We are still seeing cancers in stage 3 or stage 4 due to lack of awareness or ignorance, we have to work aggressively to detect the cancer in the early stage so that we cure most of the patients.

She feels proud to work as a female medical oncologist. The most significant achievement in her life is the satisfaction she gets by treating cancer patients when they get cured of cancer, live their normal lives, and do good in their careers.

She also wrote chapters on leukemias in the elderly in the textbook of Geriatric Medicine, which was facilitated with a Distinguished Service Award by the Indian Society of Geriatric Medicine in 2010. She is also the reviewer of many national cancer journals. She received the Global Healthcare Excellence Award for Best Oncologist and Hematologist in 2018. Recently facilitated by Times Network for most inspiring oncologist 2024.

Personal Insights:

According to her, it is important to keep a work-life balance. Although, being a medical oncologist, most of the time she is busy with professional commitments. Personal and social life is equally important to be with family, meet friends, and share thoughts. She keeps trying to be with family and friends who are the greatest source of inspiration. She also likes listening to music, singing, and cooking. She keeps updating herself with current affairs. She also believes in following a healthy lifestyle, keeping herself fit by doing regular exercise and eating healthy. 

But beyond her professional accolades, what truly sets Dr. Ammbulkar apart is her deep empathy and personal commitment to her patients. She believes in treating each patient with passion, dedication, and sincerity, advocating for a holistic approach to cancer care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of patients. Her vision for the future of oncology in India includes a strong emphasis on early detection, increased awareness, and making cutting-edge treatments accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

Impact and Visions:

To be successful in the healthcare field she suggests that “success comes with hard work, positivity and dedication to do something for the society. Being a female professional, there are challenges also, but you have overcome those with perseverance and a positive attitude towards life”.

Talking about the future in healthcare she says “I see a bright future of healthcare and particularly oncology, in India. Policymakers are taking an interest in providing treatment for all the strata of society. Public sectors are doing amazing work by providing the latest options of treatment to patients at affordable costs. There is a lot more to be done to detect cancer in the early stage so that we can cure more and more patients”.

She also wants to contribute by informing society about symptoms, early diagnosis, and timely treatment is need of the hour. She added “I feel we work towards the same. We should have more cancer screening camps and health talks for people to detect cancer in the early stages. Treatment should be affordable and cheaper for every class of the society”.

Conclusions:

Dr.Indoo’s advice to young women is to “Oncology is an interesting branch. We are seeing a reduction in mortality due to cancer and long-term survivors. If you are ready to accept challenges, this is the best specialty for you”.

She motivated young women by saying “Don’t give up, be positive and confident about facing the challenges in life”.