UDOS Women in Ophthalmology
Dr. Suvira Jain
On Healing Eyes and Touching Lives
In an industry largely dominated by men, rising to the top can be challenging for women ophthalmologists.
by Tan Sher Lynn
A
renowned clinician, skilled surgeon, respected teacher, sought-after speaker and beloved mother - Dr. Suvira Jain, indeed wears many hats. To learn more, CAKE Magazine sat down with the compassionate doctor to discuss what each role means to her.
Dr. Jain obtained her MBBS from Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Belgaum, Karnataka, and her Diploma in Ophthalmic Medicine and Surgery (DOMS) at the College of Physicians and Surgeons Bombay. She then pursued her Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons (FRCS) in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, where she gained a different perspective in looking at her subjects. Through this training, she learned to see her patients as a whole person – not only through clinical lenses, but also with compassion. This shaped her practice to ensure that not only her patients’ medical needs were met, but their human needs as well. This
also gave her the opportunity to gain recognition as a compassionate clinician. Steered by a sense of purpose to return to her homeland and serve her people, Dr. Jain decided to return to India after staying in England for about seven years. “Following my heart and instinct, I returned to India and joined the KBH Bachoo Ali Eye Hospital in Parel, Mumbai, which is my parent institute,” she shared. “I’ve been working here for the last 19 years as clinical head of the cornea department. Being in an institute, I can continue learning, as well as sustain my interest in academics, teaching and patient care. I also have the honor to work with the underprivileged people in my society. This has been my greatest sense of accomplishment.” “The reason I chose ophthalmology has always been the people – being able to improve people’s vision and seeing them satisfied after surgery. Truly, being an ophthalmologist has enabled me to touch people’s lives in such an impactful way.”
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As an Ophthalmologist
December/January 2020
As a Teacher To Dr. Jain, teaching is as equally important as treating patients. “By equipping students with the necessary skill set to operate well and establish themselves as ophthalmologists, I am able to touch many more lives,” she said. In June 2004, she conceptualized and established the Phaco Training Academy at KBH Bachoo Ali Hospital. Since then, the Academy has successfully trained more than 750 qualified ophthalmologists, including residents, from all over the country. “We accept students at any level, work out a customized program and equip them with the skills required to perform the best phacoemulsification possible, making sure that they understand the principles and become very good at the techniques,” shared Dr. Jain. She added that she always encourages her students to learn new things and improve themselves. “It is intimidating to do something new, but
