Leaders

The healthcare industry in India is witnessing a remarkable evolution, driven by technological advancements, increased awareness, and a growing emphasis on specialized care. Radiology, a critical field within this sector, plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and managing complex neurological disorders. With a focus on integrating advanced diagnostic tools and compassionate patient care, leading institutions are setting new benchmarks in the industry. At the forefront of this transformation is Dr Neharika Arora Sareen, who combines expertise in radiology with a vision to enhance multidisciplinary healthcare services across regions.

Dr Neharika Arora Sareen, as the Director of Arora Neuro Centre, embodies a unique blend of clinical expertise and administrative acumen. She oversees the hospital’s radiology department, renowned for its precision and advanced diagnostic services, while also managing its overall operations. She is currently co-leading the 100-bedded, NABH-accredited multispecialty institution offering diverse medical services. Passionate about quality care, Dr Neharika focuses on patient satisfaction, technological integration, and team development to ensure excellence in every aspect of healthcare delivery.

Below is an excerpt of Dr Neharika Arora Sareen's exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneurs Review magazine.

What are some important facets of your life and professional journey?
My journey, both personal and professional, is deeply rooted in the values instilled by my parents, Dr Neelam Arora and Dr O.P. Arora, who started from humble beginnings in Ludhiana. Their relentless work ethic, exemplified through the creation of a 25-bed hospital, shaped my life mantra, which is ‘work is worship’. Witnessing their dedication inspired my ambition to pursue medicine, excel academically, and seek global exposure through Harvard University and the University of Toronto.

Returning to India, I joined my parents and further enhanced our hospital which is now a 100-bed, NABHaccredited multi-super specialty facility with cuttingedge technology. My mission is to elevate healthcare accessibility in Ludhiana, ensuring world-class treatment locally. Personally, my husband, Nikhil Sareen's strong support keeps me motivated and resilient.

Take us through your professional experience as a radiologist with a wealth of industry experience. What were some of the major turning points throughout your professional journey?
My professional journey as a radiologist has been a transformative experience, shaped by rigorous academics and extensive practical exposure. From MBBS laying the groundwork to the intense learning curve during residency, every phase fortified my skills and resilience. Working in India and abroad provided invaluable insights. While global advancements in technology and research are commendable, India’s accessible healthcare system stands out. My fellowship at Harvard University and the University of Toronto deepened my expertise, affirming my commitment to advancing healthcare in India.

Today, I aim to further expand our hospital into a multi-super specialty facility, combining advanced radiology with comprehensive care. For me, healthcare and entrepreneurship together create meaningful, transformative impacts.

Introduce us to Arora Neuro Centre. What are the key roles and responsibilities you shoulder as the Director of Arora Neuro Centre?
Arora Neuro Centre, established in 1994 by my father Dr O.P. Arora, and my mother Dr Neelam Arora, has grown from a 25-bed neurology-focused facility into a 100-bed NABHaccredited multi-super specialty hospital. Our mission has always been to make super-specialized care accessible. Today, we offer advanced neurology, radiology, and over 10 other specialties, including medicine, psychiatry, nephrology, urology, orthopedics, and general surgery. As Director, I oversee the radiology department, renowned for accurate diagnostics, and also manage overall hospital operations.

My role spans quality enhancement, patient care, and strategic expansions. I prioritize building a cohesive team that fosters excellence, ensuring every patient receives toptier care. Together, we continue to honor the legacy of Arora Neuro Centre while shaping its future.

In your opinion what are some of the most critical challenges you encounter as a healthcare practitioner in India? What steps do you undertake to overcome these roadblocks?
In India, healthcare faces significant challenges, including limited infrastructure access especially in tier II and tier III cities, and low medical insurance coverage, especially in rural areas.

These barriers hinder both patients and smaller hospitals. To address them, I focus on community outreach and preventive care awareness, empowering patients to prioritize early detection and timely treatment. By fostering partnerships, enhancing affordability, and educating about the importance of health insurance, I strive to bridge the gaps. Creating an environment where health concerns are openly addressed and accessible care is available remains my mission in overcoming these roadblocks and improving healthcare delivery.

How do you foresee the healthcare service landscape evolving in India in 2025? Which industry trends will create a significant impact going forward?
India's healthcare landscape is poised for transformative growth in the coming decade. With rapid advancements, key trends like digital health technologies and increased healthcare expenditure will redefine patient care, enabling faster and more accurate diagnoses. Government and private sector investments will enhance accessibility and affordability, addressing gaps in insurance coverage and infrastructure. Innovations in medical technology, such as evolving MRI systems, will elevate treatment quality while optimizing efficiency. Post-COVID, heightened health awareness and demand for preventive care will further accelerate progress, positioning India as a global healthcare leader with the potential to outpace developed nations in certain domains. 

Dr Neharika Arora Sareen, Director, Arora Neuro Centre
Dr Neharika Arora Sareen is a visionary healthcare leader dedicated to patient-centric care and operational excellence. With expertise in clinical management and strategic planning, she champions innovation in healthcare delivery. Her commitment to quality and compassionate service reflects her passion for transforming lives and advancing the standards of modern medical care.

Advice to Women Leaders:
Being consistent and focused are the two main things I advise aspiring female leaders to do. They could encounter several obstacles along the route, which could make things more difficult, but never give up. Continue to rely on your strengths and put in a lot of effort until you achieve your objective. You may succeed in any career if you are persistent and believe in yourself.