Born in Gorkha, Dr. Prakash Shrestha spent his early years in Kathmandu. Raised in a middle-class family with a government officer father and a homemaker mother, he cherished memories of gatherings with cousins at his maternal grandparents’ house in Lamjung.
His educational journey includes an SLC from Siddhartha Vanasthali Institute (1992), an Intermediate of Science from Kathmandu University (1994), and an MBBS from Manipal College of Medical Sciences (2002). He furthered his studies with an Internal Medicine Residency at Guthrie/Robert Packer Hospital (2012) and an Infectious Disease Fellowship at the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX (2017).
Dr. Shrestha’s career began as a medical officer in various Nepali hospitals, including Manipal Teaching Hospital and Bir Hospital. He served as District Health Officer in Manang and Kapilbastu (2004-2007). His journey continued as a hospitalist in Grand Rapids, Michigan (2012-2015), and later, he embraced the role of an Infectious Disease Specialist and Medical Director of AMS and IP with Covenant Health System, Lubbock, Texas.
Driven by a competitive spirit, a desire to be the best, and a passion for curing the sick, Dr. Shrestha navigated challenges to become the first doctor in his family. His nature to take on challenges and the goal of serving the underserved guided his journey.
Facing the hurdles of limited medical college seats and serving in the remote district of Manang during the peak of the Maoist People’s War, Dr. Shrestha encountered challenges with rebels and the military. He continued to serve in Kapilbastu amid the Terai movement, contributing to underserved populations.
While Dr. Shrestha paved his path, he drew motivation from positive influences and family support. His parents prioritized his education, ensuring he received the best.
Though not a business owner, Dr. Shrestha supports companies owned by his wife, focusing on his medical career and contributions to various medical organizations.
From being among the top 10 in ISC to achieving a full scholarship for MBBS, Dr. Shrestha’s journey is marked by notable milestones. His contributions include involvement in research projects, publication in international journals, and serving as a Board member in various organizations.
As an Infectious Disease Specialist, Dr. Shrestha played a multifaceted role during the pandemic—clinician, medical director, social worker, and advisor in health committees. He actively engaged in research related to COVID-19 and contributed to public awareness.
Dr. Shrestha highlights issues in Nepal’s healthcare system, emphasizing the need for improved public health infrastructure, respect for healthcare workers, better planning for remote areas, affordable healthcare, and monitoring antibiotic use.
He acknowledges the challenges but emphasizes the selfless service of healthcare providers. Dr. Shrestha encourages them to continue their great work, offering support from abroad.
Hard work, confidence, positive attitude, willingness to learn, good communication, and teamwork contribute to success. Dr. Shrestha emphasizes the absence of shortcuts.
Engaging with professional societies and holding leadership roles, Dr. Shrestha serves as the President of the Nepalese Society of Lubbock and contributes to charitable work through various initiatives.
Dr. Shrestha envisions continued work in the health sector, supporting the Nepalese diaspora, contributing to health education in Nepal, and engaging in charitable activities.
Acknowledging the post-COVID-19 era, Dr. Shrestha advises adaptability, respecting time, prioritizing family, friends, career, and service to humanity. He encourages the new generation to be leaders, not followers.