Inside Lifeline: A Conversation on Vision, Values, and Future Expansion
Dr. Cyriac Pappachan
Lifeline Hospital, Adoor
Interview
Lifeline is a well-established brand across Kerala. We have patients coming from various places and staying for months. How do you view long-term stays and the patients' approach to them?
Ans: After reaching a certain age, most people start thinking about having children and building a family. Much of our lives are spent working for our children and dreaming about them, so the emotional journey of conceiving a baby is deeply significant. Nowadays, couples spend this time here happily, with the hope of achieving that goal. For better treatment and cost-effectiveness, they prefer to stay here and proceed with our treatment modalities.
Single specialty units are common now, but the Lifeline brand was established as a single specialty more than 15 years ago. What was the objective behind this decision?
Ans: We believe in being sincere in our field and in the work we do. At Lifeline, our focus has always been on our patients and the care we provide, rather than on profit. Our aim is to offer the best possible treatment to every couple. In many medical cases, the results are visibly evident—for example, when a mass is removed through surgery, the outcome is clear. But in IVF, if the treatment is unsuccessful, the result is not visible to others, even though the emotional impact is significant. That’s why we emphasize transparency in every aspect of our care and built our brand on this principle from the very beginning. This commitment to honesty and focused expertise is the reason we chose to specialize in a single field
How do you change from single specialty hospitality to multi-specialty hospital now?
Ans:In its early stages, Lifeline was a gynecology hospital offering comprehensive women’s and pediatric care. From that foundation, we introduced NICU services to treat newborns, and we’re proud to have saved babies weighing as little as 415 grams—a record we hold. As patient needs and medical requirements grew, we brought in top doctors, world-class facilities, and advanced infrastructure. With the increase in pediatric patients, we expanded into other specialties, eventually establishing a general medicine department as well. At Lifeline, we believe every patient should have access to all modalities of treatment—many of which are not available in other hospitals—at the most affordable and accessible rates.
The Adoor region lacked quality healthcare facilities, and this realization gave us the confidence to establish a multispecialty hospital. We expanded into advanced cardiac medicine and cardiothoracic surgery, equipped with a state-of-the-art Cath lab and operation theatre. As patient needs grew, we developed other departments with world-class facilities and infrastructure. This comprehensive growth significantly enhanced our brand value, and we now serve a large and loyal patient base.
What is the state of Exclusive cardiology department?
Ans; Cardiac Centre is at Adoor, and it is functioning very well. We have both inside and outside patients.
Lifeline is the only hospital that has a brand ambassador. What is the concept behind this, and why was it introduced?
Ans. Well begun is half done, that’s what we believe. to reach people on every corner we have started the new campaign. We think nowadays common people have a good amount of influence on celebrities. So, if we have a brand ambassador our message will be easily communicated to everyone.
Dr. Pappachan is one of the leading doctors in Kerala and is listed among the top 10. Is he happy with his current position?
Ans yes 100%
What is your Expansion plan?
Ans: We are positioning our Kochi center as a 360-degree service hub for gynecology and infertility care, with special attention to international patients. Konni functions as a multispecialty center with emergency services, while other centers like Kollam and Adoor focus on gynecology and women-centric healthcare. Adoor is now a 300-bedded hospital. Each center is equipped with world-class facilities, contributing to the growth of our brand value and attracting a strong patient base.
What is your Patient care innovation in Lifeline?
Ans: We aim to provide the best and most affordable treatment to everyone, tailored to their individual needs. At Lifeline, we have highly trained doctors, the latest innovations, updated technologies, and a commitment to quality in every aspect of healthcare. Everything we offer is delivered with complete transparency. The trust we build with our patients is at the core of our relationships, and this trust is now reflected in our brand. Our focus is always on the patient, not on profit.
What is your opinion on private equity firms? Are they focused on patient care or profit? Does Lifeline have any plans for a venture capital partnership?
Ans: Funding is essential for every stage of development and growth. Private equity firms can be seen as similar to receiving central government support. With adequate funding, we can enhance our use of technology, improve infrastructure, and treat more patients. However, our commitment to quality care and a patient-centric approach will always remain unchanged. As of now, Lifeline does not have any associations with venture capital or private equity firms.