Anjana Santhosh

Background

About Anjana Santhosh

Kia ora A conscientious and resolute healthcare provider is how I would describe myself. After completing my undergraduate degree in dentistry from India, I was at crossroads in pursuing my post-graduation in the various clinical departments or moving to a different tangent on the non-clinical faction. Covid 19, an unprecedented blow to humanity, was my blessing in disguise that helped me make this crucial decision.My metamorphosis from a clinician to a public healthcare professional began at the covid control room of the Government Medical College Ernakulam. My work experience there shaped my ideas and ideals about the value a public healthcare provider can add to find real solutions for disadvantaged communities and also act as their voice on health issues and policies and thus improve their lived experiences. My onus as a doctor and health practitioner and the personal joy I found in bringing about a positive change in the communities around me helped me select Public Health as my chosen field of postgraduate study.My work as a medical data analyst in an organisation like VASTA bioinformatics Pvt Ltd where we primarily dealt with data for cancer research, has further honed my skills and understanding of the importance of evidence-based practice, individual patient preference and values, mental health development in ailing populations as well as the social, cultural, racial, financial, geopolitical and gender inequities that exist within the healthcare sector that needs immediate address.Currently pursuing my Post graduate diploma in Public Health, majoring in public health, with a keen interest in the mental health development of populations; one of my subjects for the semester is Population Health: Mental Health Development: Theory and Principles, which is an emergent paradigm in the mental health sector focusing the strength, resilience and positive quality of life. Coming from a country with little to no focus on mental health development, I look forward to understanding the underlying causes and participating actively in bringing about positive change in this field.International student in New Zealand from India; when in the mood for fun, I travel and listen to music that makes me shake a leg! Watching k-dramas has been my guilty pleasure since 2021, and I'm a dedicated foodie. I'm looking forward to exploring the beautiful kiwi coastlines and countryside shortly.Namaste.