From ICU to Administration: Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb’s Mission to Transform GMC Anantnag

By Sameer Ahmad

Arising State | Anantnag, July01

In South Kashmir’s healthcare landscape, Professor Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb, Principal of Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, is making waves. A seasoned critical care expert with years of clinical and academic experience, she has taken the reins to transform medical services in the region by upgrading infrastructure, introducing new facilities and a patient-centric approach.

In this exclusive interview with Arising State (AS), Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb talks about her journey, GMC Anantnag and her vision for equitable healthcare in Jammu & Kashmir.

AS: You took over as Principal of GMC Anantnag at a crucial time. How has been the journey?
Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb:
It’s been tough and fulfilling. When I joined on May 1, 2024, the college had great potential but many critical care facilities were either missing or non-functional. I made it my mission to strengthen infrastructure, improve patient services and introduce diagnostic and therapeutic facilities which are essential to any tertiary care setup.

AS: What are the major facilities and services introduced under your leadership?
We have introduced several services — Cath Lab, ERCP Lab, Fibroscan, Bronchoscopic Lab, CBCT Lab, nutritious DIET meals for admitted patients which were unheard of in peripheral GMCs. We have also enhanced 24×7 dialysis services, increased OT tables at MCCH Anantnag, installed hysteroscopic equipment and introduced Janani Suraksha Scheme (JSS) for pregnant women.

AS: What was your philosophy behind prioritizing these upgrades?
A hospital is not just about medical treatment — it’s about building trust. Patients in under-served areas feel vulnerable. My aim was to make them feel secure and cared for. Whether it’s ICU supported surgeries, improved diagnostics or patient meals, each facility contributes to the overall healing environment.

AS: Can you tell us a bit about your medical and professional background?
I am from Habak Naseem Bagh, Srinagar. I cleared NEET in 1985 and secured 5th rank in open merit and completed my MBBS from GMC Srinagar in 1988. I did my MD in Anesthesiology and Critical Care from SKIMS in 1995. I was Head of the Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care at GMC Srinagar where I introduced several innovations. I come from a family of doctors — my father Dr. Mir Habeebullah Kanth was Director Health, J&K and both my siblings are also in medical profession.

AS: What were your achievements during your tenure at GMC Srinagar?
At GMC Srinagar I introduced Anesthesia for Organ Transplants, supported Interventional Cardiology and Radiofrequency Ablation and initiated Non-Operative Room Anesthesia for radiology and radiotherapy suites. I expanded ICU beds from 7 to 76, started multiple new ICUs and launched Super Specialty Theatre Complex. I introduced postgraduate training programs including DrNB and FNB in trauma, pediatric anesthesia and critical care and B.Sc. Anesthesia Technician courses. Research, simulator based training and continuous teaching programs were also a focus.

AS: What are the upcoming projects at GMC Anantnag that we should watch for?
Several large-scale projects have already been approved, and funding has been released. These include a Sewage Treatment Plant, Patient Sarai, MRI Unit, and a fully operational Radiation Oncology Block. These additions will take GMC Anantnag closer to offering tertiary-level care on par with leading institutions.

AS: In your opinion, what defines a good doctor and a good administrator today?
A good doctor must not only possess deep medical knowledge but also empathy, ethical integrity, and a commitment to staying updated. As for an administrator, one must have foresight, resilience, and the ability to bridge systems with compassion and discipline.

AS: What challenges still exist in delivering healthcare in the region?
Staffing, consistent power backup, and ensuring access in rural belts remain concerns. But with support from the government and the hard work of our team, we are addressing them one step at a time.

Professor Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb has truly made her mark as one of the standout administrators at GMC Anantnag. Her significant contributions to improving medical infrastructure and patient care services have been nothing short of remarkable. Dr. Najeeb’s leadership is characterized by a unique mix of professionalism, clinical know-how, and a heartfelt dedication to reforming healthcare for the better. As the healthcare scene in South Kashmir evolves, her efforts shine brightly, providing not just hope but also a thoughtful and compassionate path toward sustainable healthcare development.