A Journey Of ‘Yes’ with Dr Ritu Rana From Ritu Rana Medical

If you ask Dr Ritu Rana how she ended up in Mackay, she’ll tell you it started with a search for sunshine. What she found was more than just warm weather—she found a thriving career, a supportive community, and a life where medicine and motherhood go hand in hand. Today, she’s not just one of Queensland’s leading fertility specialists; she’s also a business powerhouse, balancing family life and a medical empire with grace, determination, and a knack for making the impossible seem effortless.

Dr Rana’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Born and trained in India, she met her husband in medical school before moving to the UK for further training. She spent over a decade in England, where she sharpened her expertise in obstetrics and gynaecology, specialising in high-risk pregnancies, advanced laparoscopic surgery, and infertility treatment. Her time at the Leeds Centre of Reproductive Medicine saw her working at the forefront of IVF, helping thousands of couples on their journey to parenthood.

But it wasn’t just her career that shaped her move to Australia. Her middle child suffered from severe eczema, requiring immunosuppressant medication. The family needed a change, and with the UK’s grey skies doing little to help, they set their sights on somewhere warmer. After considering Dubai and India, fate led them to Mackay—thanks to a friend who was relocating there at the same time. It was a leap of faith that paid off, with Mackay quickly feeling like home.

Dr Rana’s path to business ownership wasn’t planned. She initially joined renowned fertility specialist Dr Lance Herron’s practice in 2018, seeking the flexibility of private practice while raising three young children. She took on a part-time role, easing into the business while still focusing on family.

Then, in 2020, everything changed. Dr Herron fell ill, and overnight, she was faced with a decision: close the practice or step up. Without hesitation, she chose the latter, taking over his patients and ensuring continuity of care. It was a baptism by fire, but one she handled with the same precision and care she brings to her medical practice.

Running a business was new territory.

“Medical school teaches you how to save lives, not how to manage staff, finances, or a growing practice,” Dr Rana said.

But with the support of mentors—particularly Bill and Julie Boyd, who helped her navigate the complexities of Medicare and private health funds—Dr Rana quickly mastered the business side of medicine.

Fast forward to today, and her clinic boasts one of the highest IVF success rates in Queensland, a testament to her skill, dedication, and the deep trust her patients place in her. Dr Rana is the first to acknowledge that her success isn’t just her own. She firmly believes that the team around her plays an instrumental role in everything she has achieved. From the compassionate midwives who provide unwavering support to the administration team who, as she puts it, "almost literally organise my life," she knows she couldn’t do it without them.

"Without my team, I would be lost," she says.

"Their care, dedication, and ability to keep everything running smoothly allow me to focus on what I do best—helping my patients on their fertility journey."

Success in business is one thing. Success while juggling a medical career and three children is another. For Dr Rana, balance comes down to two things: planning and support. She meticulously schedules her year, aligning work commitments with school holidays to ensure quality family time. A strong support system—including a cleaner, a home helper, and a nanny—allows her to focus on her patients during the day and be fully present for her children in the evenings.

She also credits her husband, a psychiatrist, as her rock. Both with demanding careers, they share responsibilities and carve out time for themselves—whether it’s a Netflix night or a well-deserved family holiday.

Dr Rana is passionate about encouraging young women to chase their dreams, especially in medicine. Her advice?

“Be clear about your goals and work relentlessly towards them.

“Medicine is demanding, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of fun and balance.”

She also believes in seizing opportunities.

“Life presents chances for growth, and success comes from saying ‘yes’ to challenges—even when they seem daunting.”

If she had hesitated when Dr Herron fell ill, she might never have discovered her talent for business.

For women navigating careers and families, she emphasises the importance of structure and support.

“You can have it all—just not all at once.

“Prioritisation, delegation, and a little self-care go a long way.”

When she’s not transforming lives in the clinic, Dr Rana is an avid traveller. With 35 countries under her belt, she finds joy in exploring nature, history, and different cultures. She also loves cooking, ensuring her family eats nutritious, balanced meals despite their hectic schedules.

Her story is proof that success isn’t about having an easy path—it’s about making the most of the journey.

From doctor to businesswoman, from England to Mackay, and from part-time practitioner to leading one of Queensland’s most successful fertility clinics, Dr Ritu Rana embodies resilience, ambition, and the power of saying ‘yes’ to new opportunities.

She may have come to Mackay in search of sunshine, but in the process, she brought her own light, warming the lives of those she helps and guides.

Rituranamedical.com.au

Items Always in My Handbag
You'll always find a Christian Dior lip balm and Lancôme La Vie Est Belle perfume in my handbag. I've used them for at least eight years—I dislike dry lips and always want to smell good! I also keep them in my desk drawer at work, so I'm never without them. When travelling, I always carry La Roche face serum, which keeps my skin soft and refreshed.

Something People May Not Know About Me
I have a passion for fashion and makeup. I love dressing up for social occasions and experimenting with different styles. My 16-year-old daughter is actually better at makeup than I am, and I love learning from her!

Favourite Place in the World
Rome. Its breathtaking architecture feels like stepping into a living museum. I spent three days there but would love a week to truly soak in the beauty and history of the Eternal City.

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Photo credit: Alyce Holzy Photography

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