Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, a 92-year-old Indian entrepreneur and cardiologist, is defying conventional retirement norms by heading to his office daily, still deeply involved in the operations of the healthcare empire he founded.
As the mastermind behind Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Reddy has revolutionized India’s healthcare landscape, transforming it into one of the most respected and expansive healthcare networks in the country.
His journey is nothing short of remarkable. Starting with a single hospital, Dr. Reddy’s vision and relentless pursuit of excellence have grown Apollo Hospitals into a massive network comprising 71 hospitals, over 5,000 pharmacies, 291 primary care clinics, and a cutting-edge digital health platform. This vast network not only caters to millions of patients but also sets a benchmark for healthcare delivery in India and beyond.
Despite his advanced age, Dr. Reddy’s dedication to his work remains unwavering. He arrives at his office at 10 am sharp, working diligently for six days a week. His secret to longevity and sustained success lies in his passion for his work and his commitment to his vision of providing world-class healthcare to every corner of India.
In a recent interaction, Dr. Reddy shared his philosophy on success, emphasizing the importance of humility and giving back to the country. “True success comes with humility and a responsibility to give back to the country,” he said, reflecting on his journey and the values that have guided him throughout his career.
The market value of Apollo Hospitals stands at an impressive Rs 70,000 crore, a testament to Dr. Reddy’s visionary leadership and the trust that the company has earned in the healthcare sector. Dr. Reddy’s family owns 29.3% of the business, and according to Forbes, his personal net worth is estimated to be around Rs 26,560 crore ($3.52 billion), placing him among the wealthiest individuals in India.
Dr. Reddy’s rags-to-riches story is an inspiration to many. His journey began with a medical degree from Stanley Medical College in Chennai, followed by further training as a cardiologist in the UK and USA. However, it was an emotional letter from his father that prompted him to return to India in the 1970s and embark on his mission to provide world-class medical facilities in the country.
Under Dr. Reddy’s stewardship, Apollo Hospitals has not only set new standards in patient care but has also played a pivotal role in shaping healthcare policies and practices in India. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing Apollo as a trusted brand, synonymous with quality healthcare and innovation.
As Dr. Reddy continues to lead Apollo Hospitals with the same zeal and passion that drove him to start his journey, his story serves as a powerful reminder that age is just a number, and true success is a blend of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.