MGR Medical University: MBBS students to be counselled on drunken driving

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University in its efforts to help doctors lead a healthy and stress-free life has decided to initiate programs and counselling sessions in the state’s 23 government medical colleges and all private colleges. The Counselling done in colleges would be more specifically related to drunken driving. The idea to do this emerged after a few government medical college students met with a fatal road accident and died on the spot due to drunken driving.

"Our informal surveys show that many medical students begin drinking on campus by the end of the first year or at the beginning of the second year. Having mentors will also help them destress because these mentors can guide and counsel students. It will also help them become better doctors," Registrar, MGR Medical University, Dr T Balasubramanian told TOI.

Colleges have been asked by the university to appoint a mentor each for a group of 20 students. These mentors are meant to teach students ethical work practices. "We must tell our doctors and medical students to be role models," said Madras Medical College, Dean, Dr Jayanthi.

University, Vice-Chancellor, Dr S Geethalakshmi who has appointed three core committees in the last two months will now be discussing the called for amendments, in the medical curriculum, including financial economics and laws in the medical profession and changes in teaching methods. The discussions will have to be consented to and approved by the standing academic, board before any changes are made.

"While some ethical lessons can be included in the syllabus, many will have to come through observation from seniors. The mentorship program in each college aims to provide this," said Dr Balasubramanian to the TOI.