National Family Medicine Day Celebrated at AIIMS Rishikesh During 6th Family Medicine and Primary Care Conference

Rishikesh: At the 6th National Conference of Family Medicine and Primary Care at AIIMS, Rishikesh, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Raj Bhushan Choudhary, emphasized the importance of family physicians in addressing the increasing patient load in hospitals. He highlighted the need to revive the concept of the family doctor and train more family physicians to strengthen the healthcare system.

Choudhary also discussed several government health initiatives, including the expansion of Ayushman Bharat benefits to those over 70 and the success of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana in providing affordable quality medicines. He noted the significant impact of these programs, such as the mass distribution of Covid vaccines and the establishment of new AIIMS institutions across India. A doctor himself, Choudhary encouraged medical students to engage in community outreach and serve rural areas.

Professor Dr. Atul Kotwal, Director of the National Health System Resource Center, stressed the importance of doctors visiting rural areas to better understand and address local health needs. Lieutenant General Sadhna S. Nair, Director General Medical Services (Army), underscored the critical role of family physicians in managing public health issues arising from modern lifestyles. She called for stronger collaboration between primary healthcare providers and government policies.

Former cricketer Madan Lal flagged off the 'Run for Family Health' campaign, promoting physical activity for all family members. He encouraged participants to maintain a healthy lifestyle through balanced diets and regular exercise. The event, led by Professor (Dr.) Meenu Singh, Director and CEO of AIIMS, included a pledge for health and fitness.

Dr. Raman Kumar, National President of the Academy of Family Physicians of India, highlighted the significance of National Family Medicine Day, celebrated annually on AFPI’s foundation day. He also noted the implementation of Family Medicine MD programs in all new AIIMS, as mandated by the National Medical Commission Act 2019.