Trying to catch Dr. Ananth S. Ranganathan is like trying to keep lightning in a cup. Bright, sharp and constantly moving, Dr. Ranganathan is enjoying every aspect of his life as a new physician, husband and father.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up? 

A: I was born in Minnesota. My parents, both retired PhDs, moved us to Little Rock when I was 10 years old. I grew up as an Arkansan and a big-time Razorback fan.

Q: What made you want to be a medical doctor instead of a PhD like your parents? 

A: I have always been interested in science as well as working with people. When I was in college, I got to volunteer at Camp Aldersgate.  The original purpose of the camp was a ministry of the Little Rock Methodist Council for interracial fellowship. It was one of the first integrated facilities in the United States, and during the 1970s, a Little Rock physician organized the first summer medical camp for 12 children who had medical conditions that prevented them from attending other camps. Today, the camp provides social service programs all year long to more than 1,700 people, including week-long medical-specific camps for children and youth who have muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, diabetes, cardiac conditions, arthritis, kidney conditions, asthma, oncology and bleeding disorders. I was in college when I volunteered, but I loved it, and it was because of my experience there that I initially had my heart set in practicing pediatrics.

Q: Where did you go to school? 

A: I am a proud graduate of Little Rock Central High School. From there, I went to Rice University in Houston, Texas, then went to medical school here at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. I completed my residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at UAMS as well.

I think what drew me to obstetrics and gynecology is the opportunity to have continuity of care with my patients through various stages of life, and the opportunity to be a surgeon.  Also, there is something incredible about being able to be a part of the process of a couple becoming a mother and father.  That never changes, and it is very gratifying.

Q: Where do you practice? 

A: Mostly, I see patients at CHI St. Vincent Women’s Clinic – Little Rock in the Doctors Building at 500 S. University Ave, but I also see patients at the CHI St. Vincent Multispecialty Clinic – North in Sherwood on Tuesdays. Women are leading busier lives now more than ever. They take care of families, work, shop, exercise, pursue hobbies and more – all the while having to care for their own health and needs. At the clinic, we offer a variety of specialists and specialties just for women. We have a strong commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality, personalized care, and I’m glad I’m a part of it.

Q: What is a typical day in your life? 

A: We are a very active, but still laid back family.  On the weekends, I’m usually with my wife, Amber, and our seven-year-old son, Cruz. Cruz really keeps us on our toes.  You can usually find us jumping on the trampoline with him, playing basketball at the park or chasing after our one-year old golden retriever. Another thing we love doing is cooking dinner as a family. Cooking allows us time to relax and talk about our day, and we love trying new recipes. Also, both of our parents and most of Amber’s siblings live in Little Rock so we are very lucky and blessed to be able to spend a lot of time with them.

Becoming an OB/GYN was a perfect decision for every part of my life.  I could not be happier with my career choice on a professional level. I get to take care of my patients, and I feel like I am constantly learning from them. On a personal note, I met Amber when I was an intern and she was a nurse on labor and delivery so I really can say my career choice led me to the best thing in my life.