Dr. Hemraz Boodhoo Elevated to the Rank of GOSK: "It’s a Very Demanding Discipline"
Among the distinguished individuals recognized for their contributions to the development of the country is Dr. Hemraz Boodhoo, a neurosurgeon who has been elevated to the rank of Grand Officer of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GOSK).
For the specialist, this honor primarily represents recognition of a long journey dedicated to medicine and neurosurgery. "This award acknowledges many years of work for the country, as well as all the years of study required to become a neurosurgeon," he stated.
Dr. Boodhoo emphasizes that this medical specialty requires particularly lengthy and rigorous training. "To become a neurosurgeon, one must undergo between 16 and 18 years of education and training. It’s a very demanding field, which is why there are only a few neurosurgeons in Mauritius," he explained.
According to him, this honor also marks the progress made in managing neurological conditions in Mauritius over the years. "If we compare it to the situation fifteen or twenty years ago, neurosurgery has significantly improved in the country," he noted, adding that Mauritian doctors trained abroad have helped enhance the quality of care provided to patients.
On a personal level, the neurosurgeon feels a deep sense of satisfaction with this recognition. "I am very grateful for this acknowledgment. It’s a great motivation, not only for me but also for my colleagues," he declared.
However, Dr. Boodhoo insists that this honor is not solely his. "This is not just a personal recognition. It is also shared with the entire medical team, the nurses, the paramedical staff, and everyone who contributes to patient care," he clarified.
Passionate about medicine from a young age, he admits to having considered this career very early on. "Even when I was in college, I thought about becoming a doctor," he recounted. After studying medicine in India, he continued his education to specialize in neurosurgery.
His training took him to South Africa, where he pursued further studies and obtained the Fellowship of the College of Neurosurgeons of South Africa, a recognized qualification in the field of neurosurgery. After several years of training and experience abroad, he chose to return to Mauritius.
"I had the opportunity to work in other countries, but I was very happy to return to Mauritius to contribute to the development of medical services in my country," he explained.
Returning home in 2006, he worked for several years in the public sector, particularly at Candos Hospital and Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital. He contributed to the evolution of the neurosurgery department and the introduction of new procedures.
Dr. Boodhoo worked in public hospitals until 2023 before continuing his career in the private sector. For him, the recognition achieved through this honor also serves as a message of encouragement for the new generation of doctors. "I hope this will inspire young doctors to work hard, maintain high standards, and continue to serve the country," he concluded.
