Maharashtra: PG Doctor training in patient doctor relations

Nagpur:A team of Nagpur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Association have decided to counsel the post graduate students on their communication skills with relatives of patients. This decision has been taken in quick succession of the statewide strike led by resident doctors.

Dr Chaitamnya Shembekar and Dr. Wardha Dhawale will be taking on the reins as President and Secretary of the team to be instated on Saturday.

Addressing the media, Dr Shembekar said, "Efforts will be taken to improve doctor-patient relationship. We have observed that a lack of communication is the primary reason for the growing rift between patients and doctors and hence controversies often take place."

Dr Kshama Kedar, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital’s (IGMCH) Associate Professor, who is to be appointed Treasurer said, "Along the year, we will be counselling post graduate students on polishing their communication skills and attitude when it comes to dealing with patients and their relatives, since they are at the initial phase of taking up the big responsibility."

" There will be academic and non-academic activities which include two major conferences on Laparoscopy and International Infertility Conference, " Dr Shembekar added.

He told the TOI, "The theme of FOGSI this year is 'She Matters ... Care, Educate and Transform' and theme for Nagpur Obstetrics & Gynaecological Society (NOGS) is 'Stop Jousting". In specialty organizations like this, intellectuals meet up and sometimes resort to back-biting. It can affect the image of a particular doctor and affects the brotherhood in the medical fraternity."

Public awareness programs will also be arranged to discuss burning issues and public enthused to participate and find solutions to these issues.

The new team will be instated by Padmashree awardee, Dr Vikas Mahatme. The ceremony is to be held at Hotel Centre Point, Ramdaspeth. Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) Secretary, Dr Hrishikesh Pai will be presiding as the Guest of Honour.