Watch the MEDIACAST episode with Ajey Maharaj of Fortis Healthcare Ltd
My distinguished guest in this, the 26th episode of our MEDIACAST podcast series, is the accomplished and highly respected communications veteran, Ajey Maharaj, Head of Corporate Communications and PR at Fortis Healthcare Ltd – one of India’s leading and most trusted healthcare organisations.
Click play to listen to Ajey Maharaj, Head of Corp Comm and PR at Fortis Healthcare Ltd on the MEDIACAST podcast
Ajey explores how rising patient awareness and the digital revolution are fundamentally reshaping healthcare decision-making in India. He observes that while AI and digital platforms now heavily influence patient choices, the ‘human touch’ remains the most essential component of the healing process—where a clinician’s physical reassurance often provides 50% of the cure.
He discusses how Fortis, backed by the global IHH Healthcare network, operates with a steadfast ‘Patient First’ and ‘Care for Good’ philosophy. Ajey reflects on how the organisation maintains its standing across six core specialties—including Cardiac Sciences, Oncology, and Neurosciences—by leveraging global platforms like ICHOM to publish transparent, evidence-based clinical outcomes that build credibility worldwide.
Ajey speaks about the shifting dynamics of reputation management, where the 24-hour print cycle has been replaced by a 30-minute digital window. He reflects on why transparency is non-negotiable in high-stakes healthcare, how to navigate crisis communications when outcomes aren’t as expected, and why ‘hiding’ is never an option for a responsible brand.
He also answers a question about the evolving role of PR partners at the client-C-suite table. Ajey views them not as vendors, but as an extended arm of the team that must proactively advise on everything from government perspectives to strategic storytelling.
This honest conversation with a distinguished leader blends professional rigour with genuine empathy. Ajey also reflects on the success of creative, impactful awareness drives—from ‘DIY’ breast cancer awareness with the judiciary to national ‘Basic Life Skills’ campaigns that empower regular citizens to become first responders.
Ajey also speaks about the ultimate definition of trust: the moment a patient can close their eyes and depend on their doctor, and the referrals they give once they return home. His reflections are grounded in over three decades of experience, offering a masterclass in building brand equity through genuine care and absolute transparency.
Watch or listen to this episode of the MediaCast podcast with Ajey Maharaj, Head of Corporate Communications and PR, Fortis Healthcare Ltd, for rich, thought-provoking perspectives on reputation management, the ethics of healthcare, and what it truly takes to safeguard trust in the most personal category of all.
Fortis: Credible. Patient-centric. Trusted.
