Dr. Sushma Bhatnagar is a distinguished clinician, educator, and leader in the fields of anesthesiology, pain management, and palliative care. She serves as the professor and head of the Department of Anesthesiology, Pain, and Palliative Care at the Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (IRCH), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi—one of India’s premier cancer care institutions.

With decades of experience, Dr. Bhatnagar has made pioneering contributions to advancing pain relief, palliative medicine, and quality-of-life care for cancer patients. She is widely recognized for her work in integrating palliative care into mainstream oncology and for advocating evidence-based pain management practices across India. Her leadership has strengthened patient-centered care models, improved access to essential pain medications, and inspired many professionals to specialize in palliative medicine.

Dr. Bhatnagar has authored numerous scientific papers, contributed to national guidelines, and delivered lectures at leading conferences worldwide. A dedicated mentor and academician, she continues to shape medical education and build capacity in palliative care through training, research, and curriculum development.

Her work reflects a deep commitment to compassionate cancer care and to ensuring that every patient receives dignity, comfort, and support throughout their treatment journey.