PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES 10TH CONVOCATION OF ATAL BIHARI VAJPAYEE INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES AND DR RAM MANOHAR LOHIA HOSPITAL

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced the 10th convocation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi today (September 30, 2024).

Speaking on the occasion, the President told doctors to always remember that there should be a healing touch in their behaviour along with the medicine or advice given by them. She said that many times the family members of the patients go into a state of shock. Doctors should reassure them, sympathize with them. She advised doctors to remain sensitive even in difficult situations. She said that values like sensitivity and compassion improve our working style.

The President said that on many occasions, the family members of the patients misbehave with the healthcare professionals in a fit of anger. It is wrong and very reprehensible. Everyone should understand that the doctors take all measures to save the life of the patient. But, even then, if any untoward incident happens, then one should not misbehave with the doctors or the hospital staff for that. No doctor thinks of harming patients. But, sometimes all solutions are not available even in science. Doctors who deal closely with life and death usually understand these limitations. It should be kept in mind by patients, their families and the people that the reasons related to life and death may not always be understood even by doctors. Medical science has not been able to solve many mysteries related to the human body. While treating patients, doctors often have to make very difficult decisions. They work in a very stressful environment. In such a situation, they may sometimes appear impatient. But, this does not mean at all that they are not serious about their patients.

The President said that our country is moving ahead with women's empowerment. She highlighted the issue of less research on the problems of women patients in the medical field. She urged all the people associated with the medical fraternity, especially researchers, to undertake research keeping in mind the aspects related to women's health. She said that this will increase our understanding of diseases and will improve public health.

The President said that revolutionary changes are taking place in science and technology today. The use of telemedicine has increased the reach of quality health services in remote areas. The use of Artificial Intelligence to diagnose and treat diseases more effectively is being assessed. She advised doctors to maintain the zeal to learn. She said that they should keep reading new research papers and adopting new technologies. It will enable them to treat patients better.