The American Health Council has warmly welcomed Dr. Lakshmi Katikanei as “Best in Medicine.” Drawing on over 38 years within the industry, Dr. Katikanei, from Charleston, South Carolina, is highly regarded for her contributions to the field, particularly through her role as Professor of Pediatrics.

Dr. Katikanei’s academic endeavours began with the attainment of her MD in 1968 from Grant Medical College. This was furthered with a Residency at New York Medical College and a focus on Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine.

For the past 11 years, Dr. Katikanei has upheld the prestigious position of Professor of Pediatrics at Medical University of South Carolina. With a focus on Neurodevelopment, the esteemed doctor’s day to day responsibilities include being a neonatologist, teaching, and most of all, the clinical care of sick babies.

MUSC Health, the clinical enterprise of the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), is dedicated to the pursuit of changing what’s possible in health care. Nationally recognized for its innovation, patient- and family-centered care, and quality outcomes, this integrated health care system is accessible at the downtown Charleston campus and through more than 100 outreach locations, clinical affiliations with numerous health care partners, and a robust telehealth network. MUSC Health sees more than one million patient encounters annually, and its specialized care teams consistently rank among the best in the country. MUSC Health delivers transformational care shaped by world-class clinicians, health scientists, and educators who provide leading-edge care, while developing the next generation of innovative health care leaders. MUSC Physicians consists of renowned health scientists, educators, and clinicians who provide primary care and the widest range of specialty care available within any health system in South Carolina.

Reflecting on her career to date, Dr. Katikanei attributes her success to being a hard worker and having a passion for the field. She is proud to have published more than forty peer-review publications and holds her position as Director of NIH Graduates in high esteem.

As the recipient of the Aiber Levkoff Highest Award, Dr. Katikanei remains affiliated with a number of prestigious organizations including the FAAP, DCH and AAP. Her professional goals for the next 5 years include working on multiple projects concerning premature babies, and drug screening babies genetically.

When not busy working, Dr. Katikanei is extremely charitable and actively supports March of Dimes.