DR. MANOJ TEJANI

Driving Operational Excellence for Healthcare Heroes

Dr. Manoj Tejani

Head Of Operations

Apulki Healthcare Pvt Ltd

pulki Healthcare Pvt Ltd Driving Operational Excellence for Healthcare Heroes As the Indian healthcare industry experiences unprecedented growth, with projections indicating a surge from INR 7,940.87 billion in FY21 to INR 18,348.78 billion by FY27, the role of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) has become pivotal in steering organisations towards success. In this challenging landscape, Dr. Manoj Tejani, the Head of Operations at Apulki Healthcare Pvt Ltd, stands out as one of India’s most influential COOs for 2024. With a distinguished career spanning over 12 years across trust-based organisations, private hospitals, standalone facilities, public-private partnerships (PPP), and corporate healthcare entities, he has continually demonstrated his expertise in driving operational excellence and patient-centric care. Dr. Manoj has consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate the complex challenges of healthcare operations with remarkable skill and precision. In standalone facilities, he ensured operational efficiency and maintained the highest standards of care, even when resources were limited. In public-private partnerships (PPPs), he successfully bridged public health objectives with private sector efficiency, leading large-scale initiatives that have made a significant impact. As a corporate healthcare leader, he has been at the forefront of driving strategic growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing quality, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a visionary in healthcare management.TradeFlock sat down with Dr. Manoj Tejani to delve into his strategic insights, leadership, and unwavering drive, which are setting new benchmarks in hospital management. This interview offers an in-depth look at his journey, revealing the strategies and philosophies that are revolutionising healthcare operations.

How do you maintain high standards of patient care and operational excellence in the complex healthcare industry?

In today’s rapidly evolving medical landscape, enhancing patient safety, trust, and efficiency is paramount. I prioritise a holistic, patientcentred approach by developing personalised care plans and actively involving patients in their treatment decisions. This approach not only leads to better outcomes but also significantly increases patient satisfactionI emphasise continuous quality monitoring through evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration. By leveraging technology such as Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and telehealth, I ensure accurate patient information and expanded access, particularly in remote areas. My adoption of lean management principles optimises resource use, supports continuous staff training, and fosters a culture of transparency and improvement, ensuring effective, timely, and safe care. Above all, patient safety remains my top priority. By integrating advanced technology, implementing proactive safety measures, and fostering a culture of transparency and continuous improvement, I ensure that care is delivered effectively, efficiently, and safely for both patients and staff

What major operational challenges have you faced in healthcare management while managing Profit and Loss?

I identify profit and loss management as a critical function for any COO, as it directly influences a company’s financial health and sustainability. Balancing financial stability with high-quality patient care is crucial. “I’ve diversified revenue streams by offering speciality clinics, telemedicine, and wellness programmes while optimising billing, collections, and contract negotiations to improve margins.” I further highlight my approach to cost management through efficient practices, optimised supply chains, and investments in technology to reduce administrative expenses. Strategic planning, regular financial reviews, and a focus on high-demand service lines have enabled him to drive operational efficiency, align staffing with patient demand, and enhance patient flow—all while maintaining a sharp focus on profitability.

What strategies have you implemented to improve efficiency and patient care?

Lean management principles have streamlined operations, reduced waste, and supported data-driven decision-making.” I also prioritise staff development through continuous education and competency assessments, ensuring that the team is always evolving. “Patient safety is non-negotiable,” I assert, “and we maintain it through strict protocols and a non-punitive incident reporting system. We also regularly collect and act on feedback, implementing patient-centred initiatives that truly make a difference.”

How do technology and innovation fit into your operational strategy? Can you share any recent advancements at your company?

Technology is a cornerstone of our operational strategy, driving both efficiency and improved patient outcomes. We leverage EHRs for realtime patient information, which enhances diagnosis and treatment planning. Automation and AI have streamlined administrative tasks, significantly reducing errors and manual work. Recent advancements include the expansion of telehealth platforms for remote consultations, the use of AI for predictive analytics, blockchain for secure record-keeping, IoT devices for remote patient monitoring, and robotic process automation (RPA) to boost operational efficiency. These innovations are not only transforming our operations but also setting new benchmarks in the industry.

What emerging healthcare trends do you believe will significantly impact operations in the next decade?

Looking ahead, I envision several emerging trends that will significantly impact healthcare operations over the next decade. “Telemedicine and virtual care will revolutionise accessibility, reduce costs, and enhance patient convenience,” I predict. “Personalised medicine, AI, and machine learning will drive predictive analytics and tailored treatments, while wearable health devices will enable continuous monitoring and boost patient engagement.” Blockchain technology will enhance data security and interoperability, while robotic process automation (RPA) will increase operational efficiency by automating routine tasks. “Expanding mental health services into primary care and teletherapy will provide a more holistic healthcare approach”.