Aster Hospital Doha, a division of Aster DM Healthcare, is likely to open a neurosurgery outpatient department "soon".
Dr Dilip Panikar, one of the most reputable neurosurgeons in India and a senior consultant and head of the department of neurosurgery at Aster Medicity, Kochi, would be a visiting consultant here when the new facility is operational.
“We are planning to set up an OPD in neurosurgery at the hospital after obtaining the necessary permission from the authorities in a few months. There is a good number of patients who are seeking treatment in neurosurgery and at present we have a neurologist in one of our clinics. Once we get all the necessary permissions, we will start providing new services and neurosurgery experts such as Dr Panikar will be able to render their services for the population here,” Dr Sameer Moopan, chief executive officer of Aster DMH Qatar, said at a press conference Monday. 
Dr Panikar, with over 26 years of experience, is an expert in neurosurgery, neuro-oncology and skull base surgery, reconstructive surgery for craniofacial deformities, functional neurosurgery and neurovascular surgery. A postgraduate teacher in neurosurgery and examiner to many universities across India, he has published more than 25 research articles in prominent Indian and International medical journals. 
Addressing the media, Dr Panikar said discussions are going on for further involvement of Aster Medicity Kochi with Aster Hospital Doha. 
“We are discussing how we can offer more advanced treatment for various illnesses to patients here. It will not be immediately possible to set up some of the procedures here at Aster Hospital. Some other practices are feasible here subject to licensing and regulatory approvals and infrastructural upgrades. What we can also do is to provide seamless connectivity and transition for the patients to our hospital in Kochi where all the procedures can be done. So the entire process of diagnosis, evaluation, therapy and follow-up becomes a seamless experience for the patients,” he explained.
Dr Nazar Moopan, medical director and chief of Medical Staff, Aster DMH Qatar, and Kapil Chib, chief operating officer, Aster Hospital Doha, were also present at the press conference. 
"Our commitment to patient safety and offering world-class services has made a significant impact in achieving good treatment results and patient satisfaction. We are also planning to add more facilities in the coming months," said Dr Chib.
Dr Panikar specialises in the management of brain tumour, neurovascular surgery, a branch of the surgery related to the diseases of blood vessels as well as head surgeries.
“We try to improve the function of the nervous system by various ways. We have also many advanced techniques. Many such patients need the involvement of the services of several people and departments and every facet of neurosurgery is always multidisciplinary. We work across various disciplines to offer the best for the patients,” he added.
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