By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Rishikesh, 29 Sep: Governor Lt General Gurmit Singh (Retd), participated in the closing ceremony of the 6th National Conference on ‘Family Medicine and Primary Care’ at AIIMS Rishikesh on Sunday. This two-day conference featured discussions led by doctors from across the country. During the event, the Governor honoured doctors for their commendable services and released the conference souvenir.
The Governor emphasised that “family medicine and primary care” is the foundation of healthcare services. Family physicians can provide better treatment by understanding the health status of all family members. He noted that family medicine is not just about treating diseases; it also promotes a healthy lifestyle and focuses on prevention. In an era of rising diseases, the need for treatment is less than the need for prevention and counselling. Families often prefer to consult family physicians about diet, stress, domestic issues, and personal problems. Thus, there is a significant demand for family medicine and primary care physicians.
He suggested that, if doctors engage with communities and continuously monitor and counsel families, diseases may not escalate to severe levels, enabling timely treatment. He pointed out that, due to a lack of awareness, people in rural areas often seek medical help only in serious conditions. Strengthening primary care, especially in rural and remote areas, will enhance access to healthcare services. It is essential to ensure that all citizens receive quality and accessible healthcare. He urged doctors to extend health services to people in remote areas.
The Governor appreciated AIIMS Rishikesh, under the leadership of Director Prof Meenu Singh, for providing doorstep care to over 150,000 patients in remote areas and for conducting community wellness programs and telemedicine services through drones.
Swami Chidanand Saraswati, head of Parmarth Niketan, also shared his thoughts, highlighting the importance of connecting families with their ancient culture and stating that meditation is essential alongside medicine. Dr Raman Kumar, President of the Academy of Family Physicians of India, also addressed the attendees.
Prof Meenu Singh welcomed the doctors from across the country and expressed gratitude for making the conference a success. The event was also attended by Coordinator Dr Santosh Kumar, Dean of Academics Prof Jaya Chaturvedi, and numerous doctors.
