In the world of modern medicine, there are few names that command the respect, admiration, and affection that Dr V P Nair does. Known not only as a Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Mount Elizabeth Hospitals, Orchard & Novena, Singapore, but also as a compassionate healer, a global educator, and a community leader, his life story is one of grit, passion, and service.
From the beginning, Dr Nair’s path was destined for greatness. He graduated from King George’s Medical College, Lucknow, with an MBBS degree, setting the foundation for a career that would span continents and redefine the way cardiology is practiced. He went on to pursue postgraduate qualifications in the United Kingdom and Ireland, attaining MRCP (UK), MRCP (Ireland), MRCGP (UK), and FAMS (Cardiology – Singapore).
His thirst for knowledge pushed him further, earning prestigious fellowships such as FRCP (London, Edinburgh, Ireland), FRCGP (UK), FACC (USA), FESC (Paris), and FSCAI (USA). These accolades were not merely symbols of academic excellence but stepping stones in his relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care.
V P Nair: A Global Journey of Excellence
Dr V P Nair trained in some of the world’s most renowned medical institutions. His early years as a cardiologist were shaped at the Regional Cardiothoracic Centre, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, where he worked alongside legendary professors Ronald W. F. Campbell and Desmond Julian.
Later, at the San Francisco Heart Institute, he had the privilege of learning from the pioneering interventional cardiologist Professor Richard K. Myler. His experiences were further expanded at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, USA, and Broussais University Hospital in Paris, France, under the guidance of world-class experts.
Armed with cutting-edge expertise, Dr Nair brought his knowledge back to Singapore, where he became a pioneer in Percutaneous Coronary Interventions (PCI), including complex angioplasty and stenting. For over three decades, he has saved countless lives, performing intricate heart procedures with a combination of skill, precision, and deep empathy for his patients.
Passing the Torch – A Family of Healers
Medicine runs in the Nair family. Today, Dr Nair is joined by his son, Dr Dinesh Nair, also a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist. Together, under the banner of “Heart Matters”, they handle some of the most complex cardiac cases, blending expertise with compassion. Their collaboration symbolizes a legacy of healing and the continuation of Dr Nair’s mission to bring hope to patients facing life-threatening conditions.
V P Nair: Educator, Innovator, and Global Voice
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr V P Nair has been an inspiring teacher. He has trained undergraduate and postgraduate medical students, nurses, and para-medical staff in Singapore and across Asia. His lectures and workshops have inspired generations of healthcare professionals.
He has addressed the World Congress of Cardiology and numerous international conferences, sharing his insights on interventional cardiology, cardio-cerebral resuscitation, and even the role of laughter aerobics in improving heart health. His scientific publications and CME (Continuing Medical Education) sessions reflect his belief that medicine is not just about treatment, but about education, prevention, and innovation.
A Leader Beyond Medicine
Dr Nair’s contributions are not confined to the operating theatre. His heart beats equally for the community. For 16 years, he served as the President of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Singapore, and he continues as its advisor. He has also led the Hindu Centre Singapore, the Singapore Malayalee Association, and the Rotary Club of Serangoon Garden Orchard, besides serving in various leadership roles in civic, cultural, and social organizations.
His passion for community service earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Public Service Medal (PBM), the Hind Rattan Award (India), the Outstanding Malayalee Award (Singapore), the Pravasi Excellent Award for Healthcare, and the Excellence in Cardiac Care Award. These accolades reflect not just professional brilliance but a life devoted to uplifting others.
Author and Philanthropist
In 2021, Dr Nair published his book “Healing Hearts, Touching Minds: The Journey of an Interventional Cardiologist”, a 640-page masterpiece that chronicles his medical journey, social contributions, and cardiology expertise. True to his philanthropic spirit, all proceeds from the book were donated to the Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund, supporting underprivileged children.
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