From the hallowed halls of King George Medical College to the remote hills of Uttarakhand, Dr. Pankaj Kohli has lived a life defined by service, perseverance, and purpose.
The Early Steps in Dentistry
Dr. Pankaj Kohli began his professional journey by completing his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from the prestigious King George Medical College in 2005. With a deep interest in dentistry and patient care, he took up a government job as a dental surgeon, eventually becoming a Senior Dental Surgeon in a district hospital in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Service in Remote Areas
In 2007, Dr. Kohli was posted to a remote, hilly region of Uttarakhand where the challenges were manifold scarcity of resources, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to dental care. Despite the difficulties, he took it upon himself to set up a dental clinic with basic equipment through proper government channels. For over 14 years, he served tirelessly in that region, providing essential dental services and improving oral health awareness in the community.
His determination and resourcefulness allowed him to deliver treatments even when the odds were stacked against him. One such incident involved saving a patient suffering from necrotizing fasciitis—a life-threatening condition that required immediate and extensive treatment. Dr. Kohli’s timely intervention and dedicated care not only saved the patient’s life but also demonstrated the true essence of commitment in public service.
Balancing Clinical Excellence and Administrative Leadership
Apart from his clinical duties, Dr. Kohli took an active interest in public health initiatives and administrative responsibilities. He played key roles in health awareness campaigns, pilot projects, and infrastructure improvements like oxygen generation plants and ambulance services. These efforts had a lasting impact on both community health and hospital systems.
The Challenge of Mindset and Awareness
One of the recurring challenges Dr. Kohli identified was the lack of awareness around oral hygiene, especially among financially weaker sections. Over time, he realized that digital education, patient communication, and social media could play a pivotal role in shifting the public mindset and improving access to dental care.
Personal Growth Beyond the Clinic
Despite a demanding schedule, Dr. Kohli makes time for personal development. His hobbies include travel, reading books and audiobooks, and engaging in dopamine detoxes to maintain mental clarity. He emphasizes the importance of staying positive, avoiding workplace politics, and continuously evolving as a professional and as a person.
A New Chapter with Doctorpreneur Academy
In November 2023, Dr. Kohli joined Doctorpreneur Academy, and that decision proved to be transformative. Through the Academy, he:
- Understood the power of digital tools and social media in reaching a wider audience.
- Learned about systems and processes that streamlined his practice.
- Gained access to a community of like-minded professionals who inspired him to dream bigger.
- Developed a growth mindset and saw new possibilities in clinical education, communication, and leadership.
This journey gave him the confidence to not only serve better but also to expand his influence through digital and educational platforms. His story is a shining example of how dedication, adaptability, and lifelong learning can come together to make a difference.
Dr. Pankaj Kohli’s advice to young doctors:
“Start early. Stay grounded. Be patient. And never underestimate the power of digital awareness in today’s healthcare landscape.”
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