KL NEWS NETWORK
SRINAGAR
On the occasion of Doctors Day, the Indian Medical Association, J&K state branch expressed its concern over the drastic increase in the cases of violence against doctors and medical establishments.
July 1st is observed as ‘Doctors Day’ every year in memory of Bharat Ratna Awardee late Dr BC Roy who was the doyen of the medical profession.
“It was discussed that the need of the hour was for the society to create an atmosphere where doctors can practice with peace and dignity. This in turn would allow the medical fraternity to put its best foot forward towards providing the best possible healthcare services to the society at large without the fear of assault and harassment. The urgent need for J&K State Act to protect doctors while on duty and medical establishments against public outrage was also voiced,” a statement issued by the IMA said.
Another important concern raised was regarding common healthcare issues, which continue to plague our society such as a high maternal mortality and infant mortality rate. IMA J&K emphasize on the J&K government to prioritize health sector with drafting state health policy keeping in view the unique demographic, topographic and social characteristics.
Voicing a unanimous plea, Dr G.M. Malik State President, Dr Mir Nazir Ahmad (Honorary Secretary of the J&K State IMA branch said, “IMA demands that the right to health be made a fundamental right. To achieve this goal, the government should strengthen the public healthcare delivery system and promote and support the private health sector which caters to 70% of the healthcare demands of our country.”
“Further government shall come up with a law for protecting the medical staff on duty and the hospital property,” the statement said adding that large-scale celebrations took place across all the State branches of the Indian Medical Association.
