Cardiologist G. Vijayaraghavan passes away
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G. Vijayaraghavan, renowned cardiologist and founding director and vice-chairperson of KIMS HEALTH, passed away here on Sunday. He was 84. In recognition of his contributions to the health-care sector, the nation honoured him with the Padma Shri award in 2009.
Dr. Vijayaraghavan played a pivotal role in establishing KIMS Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram in 2002. He served as the institution’s vice-chairperson and led its Cardiology department for over two decades. He also established the hospital’s academic division and as its Dean, spearheaded extensive academic and research initiatives, including the launch of more than twenty Diplomate of National Board (DNB) courses.
A native of Kollam, he obtained his medical degree from the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College in 1964 and an MD in General Medicine in 1969. He pursued his studies at Christian Medical College, Vellore, obtaining a DM in Cardiology in 1973, and subsequently began his career as an Associate Professor at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College.
In 1976, he conducted research on endomyocardial fibrosis through a collaboration between the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College and Brompton Hospital in London. He played a pivotal role in establishing the country’s first 2D echocardiography laboratory in 1980. His work focussed primarily on preventive cardiology, allied treatments and specialised care for heart patients.
From 1984 onwards, he served as a university guide for PhD research in Cardiology at the University of Kerala. His research findings have been published in various journals, including international ones. He is also a co-author of a book on Doppler echocardiography and has authored several other books in the health-care field. He has been honoured with lifetime achievement awards by the Indian Academy of Echocardiography, the Indian College of Cardiology and the Cardiological Society of India. He received honorary fellowships from global medical organisations such as the Royal College of Physicians and the American College of Cardiology.
Dr. Vijayaraghavan served as the Head of the Cardiology department at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College until 1998. Subsequently, he worked as a Professor at Kuwait University Hospital and as the Head of Cardiology at Welcare Hospital, Dubai.
Chief Minister V.D.Satheesan and Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan condoled his passing. His mortal remains will be placed for public viewing at Osler Hall, KIMS HEALTH, from 8 a.m. on September 22. The cremation will take place at Shanthikavadam at 5 p.m. with State honours.
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