HOW I BALANCE AFFORDABILITY WITH QUALITY FOR MY CARE GROUP

In this episode of Care CEO Success Stories Podcast, Adam James of Springup PR speaks with Dr. Vishen Ramkisson, a seasoned healthcare professional and entrepreneur, deeply rooted in his community as a practicing NHS GP for over 22 years.

Throughout his career, he has remained closely connected to the local area, working mere meters from where he resides. 

His dedication to patient care has made him a familiar face in his neighbourhood and this strong community bond has been integral to his professional journey.

In addition to his role as a GP, Dr. Ramkisson is the founder and CEO of Agecare, a group of nine care homes across London, the South-East, and the Home Counties.

Founded just two years ago, Agecare is committed to providing exceptional care while balancing affordability and quality for residents.

Dr. Ramkisson’s dual role as a physician and entrepreneur has allowed him to introduce operational excellence, aiming for care standards that he deems good enough for his own family.

Dr. Ramkisson also serves as a National Specialty Advisor for Urgent and Emergency Care with NHS England Southeast. His background in clinical leadership, coupled with a deep interest in digital healthcare, has shaped his vision for high-quality, sustainable care delivery.

In this episode Dr Ramkisson discusses his leadership style and how Agecare has built a strong reputation for offering services to both private and local authority-funded residents by maintaining close relationships with commissioners and investing in clinical leadership including:

•     His entrepreneurial journey, founding Agecare two years ago and growing it to nine care homes in the London and Southeast regions.

•     His motto to “deliver care that would be good enough for his parents,” ensuring high clinical standards without cutting corners.

•     Dr. Ramkisson addresses how he balances affordability and quality in the face of rising costs by focusing on data management and motivated staff.

•     How Dr Ramkisson motivates his team and the importance of ample, fully-paid breaks and rest periods for all staff shifts to improve satisfaction and reduce turnover.

•     The techniques behind Agecare Homes boasting a 3% staff turnover rate.

•     How he uses empathy as a tool to understand staff challenges, “promoting a supportive culture and enhancing staff well-being”.

•     Initiatives like 360-degree feedback, structured appraisals, and training programs help identify and promote internal talent.

•     The importance of internal promotions and how three managerial vacancies were filled internally in 2023, “demonstrating the company’s focus on career development”.

•     Open door leadership and how Dr. Ramkisson maintains an approachable leadership style, “avoiding formal attire,” and meeting staff on-site to foster open communication.

•     How collaborative relationships with local authority commissioners are essential for balancing care provision for private and funded residents.

•     Navigating local authority funding challenges to adjust fee rates fairly, ensuring continuity of care for residents transitioning to funded care.

•     How the leadership team includes healthcare professionals such as pharmacists, nurses, and NHS veterans.

•     Dr. Ramkisson’s role as a local GP and care home leader enhances trust and accountability within the community.

•     How Dr Ramkisson actively plans for challenges like National Insurance contribution rises and minimum wage increases by fostering transparency with stakeholders.