SPA Spotlight – Mrs. Sandhya S.K
Journey as a Physician Assistant
Mrs. Sandhya S.K. began her career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in the Cardiology Department at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi, in 2005. Initially holding a Bachelor’s degree in Botany, her turning point toward healthcare came when her father was diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, igniting her passion to explore the medical field. After completing her Post Graduate Diploma in Physician Assistant in 2005, Mrs. Sandhya specialized in cardiology, receiving comprehensive clinical training in both outpatient and inpatient care. Her early responsibilities included assisting cardiologists during patient visits, clinical examinations, analyzing laboratory reports, counseling patients, and managing patient care in coronary care units. Since 2006, she has coordinated various clinical trials and actively contributed to training upcoming PA students.
Rewarding Aspects of Cardiology
With two decades of experience in cardiology, Mrs. Sandhya finds immense satisfaction in making a tangible difference in patients’ lives. Observing patients recover from critical conditions and witnessing their return to normal life remains profoundly rewarding. Additionally, establishing long-term, compassionate, and personalized relationships with patients and their families adds deep meaning to her role.
Specialization in Pacemaker Interrogation
Mrs. Sandhya's journey into pacemaker interrogation started from observing doctors overwhelmed by managing numerous patients with implanted cardiac devices. Recognizing an opportunity to assist patients and ease doctors' burdens, she specialized in pacemaker, ICD, and CRT interrogation in 2010. Her mentors, including late Prof. Dr. K.K. Haridas, Prof. Dr. Prakash Kamath, and Prof. Dr. K.U. Natarajan, significantly shaped her expertise. Mrs. Sandhya advises aspiring cardiology PAs to develop robust communication skills, experience rotations through various cardiology subspecialties, and stay updated with cardiology-specific education and research.
Influence of Esteemed Cardiologists
Mrs. Sandhya attributes significant professional growth to the mentorship of esteemed cardiologists. The late Prof. Dr. K.K. Haridas instilled values of compassionate care, empathy, integrity, and work ethic, enhancing her clinical capabilities and allowing her to participate in national and international research meetings. Prof. Dr. K.U. Natarajan guided her in mastering device interrogation, enabling her to set up a dedicated pacemaker clinic at Amrita Hospital. Their visionary leadership continues to inspire her professional journey.
Overcoming Professional Challenges
Cardiology presented Mrs. Sandhya with numerous challenges, including managing complex medical cases, high-pressure environments, multitasking, and staying abreast of medical advancements. Her approach to overcoming these challenges involves continuous education, collaboration with senior colleagues, task prioritization, delegation, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Staying Updated in Cardiology
Mrs. Sandhya consistently refines her skills by attending conferences, workshops, and online courses, keeping updated on current medical research, and actively exchanging knowledge with peers and experts.
Contribution to PACE 2025
An active organizer for PACE 2025, Mrs. Sandhya contributed significantly to strategic planning and event coordination, notably leading a successful pacemaker follow-up workshop. She views this experience as a highlight in her career, reflecting her deep passion and commitment to fostering the growth and development of the Physician Assistant community.
Evolution in the PA Profession
Over the past two decades, Mrs. Sandhya has witnessed substantial growth in the PA profession, especially within cardiology. PAs now assume greater clinical responsibilities, such as diagnosing, participating in treatments, performing minimally invasive procedures, managing pacemaker clinics, and leading clinical trials. Their role in patient counseling has also expanded considerably.
Advice for Young Physician Assistants
Mrs. Sandhya encourages young PAs to proactively seek diverse clinical experiences, remain curious and reflective, continuously enhance their skills, and strengthen their communication abilities for effective patient and team interactions.
Future of PAs in Indian Cardiology
Looking ahead, Mrs. Sandhya sees a promising evolution for Physician Assistants in India, with increasing responsibilities in cardiology, from diagnostics and ECG interpretation to performing supervised procedures. She anticipates greater autonomy, especially in primary care roles in rural areas, addressing the growing demand for specialized cardiovascular care.