RK Hospital for Women and Children, established in 1977 by Dr. R. Krishnamurthy, is one of the oldest healthcare institutions serving Thanjavur and its neighboring districts, including Pudukottai, Nagapattinam, Thiruvarur, and Karaikal. Originally a 30-bed known as RK Nursing Home, it was situated in Membalam, adjacent to the majestic Brihadeeswara Temple. The hospital was dedicated to addressing both medical and surgical conditions prevalent among the predominantly rural agricultural population.

In its early years, RK Nursing Home was a pioneer in providing affordable and compassionate care. Notably, it featured an air-conditioned operation theater—a rarity in that era—and utilized imported, high-quality instruments and equipment, many of which remain in use today. Over four decades, the nursing home performed numerous life-saving procedures, earning the gratitude of thousands of patients.

Transitioning to the next generation of family doctors, there was a recognized need to modernize and specialize the facility to meet contemporary healthcare demands. In 2016, the hospital relocated to a new, upgraded premises at VOC Nagar, rebranded as RK Hospital for Women and Children, with a specialized focus on pediatrics and women's health.

The hospital now offers child-friendly outpatient departments and wards, along with Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) services. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities in Pediatric Pulmonology, assisting children with complex respiratory issues. In women's health, the hospital provides specialized care, including high-risk pregnancy management and fetal medicine, supported by advanced ultrasound equipment. Additionally, a comprehensive Level II Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Center offers services such as IVF, ICSI, vitrification, and freezing. A modern laparoscopy suite facilitates complex gynecological procedures, and the hospital also performs all gynecological oncological surgeries and provides medical oncology treatments.

While the primary focus remains on women's and children's health, RK Hospital extends its services to other specialties, including Plastic Surgery, General Surgery, ENT, and Orthopedics. The hospital's enthusiastic third-generation consultants continue to expand and develop its offerings, ensuring comprehensive care for the community.

Timeline:

• 1977: Dr. R. Krishnamurthy founded Dr. RK Nursing Home.
• 2016: RK Hospital for Women and Children was established as a private limited company and moved to its new, specialized premises.
• 2018: The fetal medicine unit, VARASATTVA, commenced operations.
• 2023: The ART unit was added.
• 2024: The Gynecological Oncology department was inaugurated.
• November 2024: The Pediatric Pulmonology specialty clinic, featuring a bronchoscopy suite, began functioning.