Alumni Spotlight
Dr Sabha Bhatti MBBS '03
How do you stay motivated and continue learning in your field, especially in a world that's constantly evolving?
My motivation comes from the opportunity to make a tangible difference in underserved populations. Having trained and worked in different healthcare systems, I've seen firsthand how access and early diagnosis can transform outcomes. The evolving nature of cardiac imaging and its potential to improve patient care continues to drive my learning and professional growth.
In your vast experience, what are the most pressing healthcare needs of the people of Pakistan? Where are we, as a healthcare community, doing well and where do we need more effort and investment?
One
of the most pressing healthcare challenges in Pakistan is the late presentation
of patients due to limited access to care and lack of awareness. Conditions
such as rheumatic heart disease and cardiomyopathies, including peripartum
cardiomyopathy, remain significantly underdiagnosed and undertreated.
While institutions are making progress in expanding services, there is still a critical need for early screening programs, especially in high-risk populations. Greater investment is needed in preventive care, diagnostic infrastructure, and public awareness to address these gaps effectively.
Could you highlight some of your key research interests and any impactful projects you have worked on?
My primary research interests lie in cardiac imaging, valve diseases, and cardiomyopathies. One of the key projects I have been involved in is the PRESAP study, which screened over 30,000 women in antenatal clinics using echocardiography, regardless of symptoms.
The study revealed that approximately 4% of women had previously undiagnosed structural heart disease. These patients were subsequently enrolled in specialized care pathways. The findings were presented as late-breaking trials at major international conferences and published in leading journals.
Additionally, I have contributed to establishing a multidisciplinary valve center, where data has shown that management plans changed in 25% of patients after comprehensive evaluation highlighting the importance of specialized, team-based care.
What does an average day in your professional life look like?
My daily work involves a combination of clinical care, imaging interpretation, teaching, and program development. I work closely with multidisciplinary teams to evaluate complex cardiac cases, oversee imaging services, and mentor fellows and technicians. A significant part of my time is also dedicated to advancing new service lines and improving patient care pathways.
From your time at AKU, do you have a favorite moment, anecdote or incident that is etched in your memory? How would you describe that journey?
Having been associated with Aga Khan University since my early years—starting with volunteering at AKUH Nairobi during high school and later as a medical student in the Class of 2003 my journey has been deeply rooted in the institution.
Those formative years instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, curiosity, and commitment to excellence, which have stayed with me throughout my career.
Looking back, what aspects of AKU's environment or values had the most lasting impact on your personal and professional development?
AKU's emphasis on excellence, ethical practice, and service to humanity has had a lasting impact on both my personal and professional development. The values of patient-centered care and a commitment to serving vulnerable populations have strongly influenced my decision to return and contribute to the public healthcare sector in Pakistan.
Past Spotlight
- Dr Philomena Drago
- Dr Bashir Hanif
- Dr Sehreen Khan
- Dr Naila Baig Ansari
- Dr Muhammad Asim Khan
- Dr Azam Jan
- Dr Rahat Naz
- Dr Faysal Subhani
- Dr Alina Sadaf
- Dr Hamid Daud Naeem
- Muhammad Tahir Yousafzai
- Dr Sana Sheikh
- Dr Muhammad Yaser Hassan
