Pune cardiologist Dr Shirish Hiremath, former Cardiological Society of India president, dies at 75

Well-known Pune cardiologist Dr Shirish Hiremath died on Thursday night at around 9 pm. He was 75. Dr Hiremath was a former president of the Cardiological Society of India (CSI). He breathed his last at his home in Sopan Baug. He had reportedly been ill for a long time.

Dr Hiremath had more than 40 years of experience in treating heart disease. He was known for his contribution to interventional cardiology and for his work at several major medical institutions in Pune. The medical fraternity is in mourning.

According to his colleagues, Dr Hiremath had been unwell for about two years. Dr Parvez K. Grant, chairman and managing trustee of Ruby Hall Clinic, said in an official statement on his death that he had been battling cancer for the past few years.

Dr Grant said Dr Hiremath played an important role in giving Ruby Hall Clinic a worldwide reputation in cardiology. He spoke of Dr Hiremath's contribution to the specialty over several decades and his dedication to patient care.

"Beyond his professional achievements, he was known for his kindness, compassion and caring nature, and he touched countless lives along the way," Dr Grant said.

Dr Grant described his death as an irreparable loss to the institution and the medical world. He said Dr Hiremath would be remembered not only for his professional contribution but also for his warmth and humanity in dealing with people.

Dr Hiremath completed his MBBS and MD at B.J. Medical College, Pune, and then a DM in cardiology. He began his career in heart care in 1982 at Joshi Hospital, Pune. He later worked with several medical institutions in the city, including Ruby Hall Clinic, where he was also director of the cardiac catheterisation laboratory.

In a career of over 40 years, he performed more than 40,000 angioplasties and over one lakh angiographies. He was also involved in treating heart attack patients, promoted advanced medical technologies and worked towards early detection of heart disease.

He was held in particular esteem in the medical community for his mastery of angiography and angioplasty and his efforts to spread awareness about heart health.

Ruby Hall Clinic has expressed condolences to his family, colleagues and well-wishers. The clinic remembered him for his professional contribution and his compassionate approach to patient care.