Dr. Pramodchandra Shah announces retirement

Special to the Transcript

After more than 50 years of dedicated service, a beloved and well respected physician in Winthrop, has retired, marking the end of an era. His contributions at Winthrop Community Hospital and his own primary care facility have left an indelible impact that will be cherished for generations.

Dr. Pramodchandra Shah began his exceptional journey of service to others from an early age. He graduated from high school in Ghatkopar, Mumbai in April 1958 and entered Ramnarain Ruia College in Matunga, where he completed his Intermediate Science studies by April 1960. His academic excellence gained him admission to the prestigious Grant Medical College at the University of Mumbai, where he earned his medical degree in December 1964.

Dr. Shah completed his internship at the renowned Sir J.J. Group of Hospitals in Mumbai by January 1966, followed by a house surgeon role in general surgery and related specialties. His pursuit of surgical expertise led him to the position of registrar (chief resident) in June 1967. After meeting his future wife, Devila, during their surgical exam preparation in 1967, Dr. Shah successfully passed his Master of Surgery exam in October 1968, ranking third. In 1969, Dr. Shah applied for a residency program in the U.S., choosing the Hospital of Saint Raphael in New Haven, Connecticut, where he began in July. During this period, he purchased his first car and married Devila in December 1970.

By July 1971, he had advanced to chief resident at Norwalk Hospital, contributing to the development of their surgical program. Dr. Shah and his family relocated to Massachusetts in 1972, where he joined Boston Medical Center and later Somerville Hospital as Director of Emergency Services. His career continued to thrive when he was recruited by Winthrop Hospital in 1973 to establish their Emergency Room and outpatient services. Opening his private practice on Main Street in Winthrop, Dr. Shah soon became a pillar of the local medical community, serving as a general surgeon at Winthrop Hospital and neighboring facilities for decades. Throughout his career, Dr. Shah was committed to patient care and innovation, from expanding his practice to include physical therapy services to being granted surgical privileges at Melrose Wakefield Hospital.

His leadership extended beyond the operating room, as he was elected president of the Independent Physicians Association and served as a trustee and chair for the Indian Medical Association of New England (IMANE). Dr. Pramodchandra Shah is leaving behind a legacy of compassionate care, medical expertise, and community impact that will be remembered for generations. For those concerned about the future of their care, Commonwealth Primary Care will continue to offer high quality care, located at the same familiar address 365 Main Street under the leadership of Nurse Practitioner Jeanne Holgersen, who has worked alongside Dr. Shah for 4 years.

For those who wish to personally thank Dr. Shah for his remarkable service, he will be speaking at the upcoming Winthrop Community Health Forum on November 13, 2024 6PM – 8PM at The Arthur T Cummings School at 40 Hermon Street Winthrop MA 01252. This special event will include free health care giveaways, flu shots, and refreshments, making it an ideal time for the community to come together in celebration and gratitude. All in the community are welcome and encouraged to attend.