Hyderabad: Stick to NMC norms, medical colleges told

Hyderabad: Health Minister T Harish Rao on Thursday stressed on the importance of adhering to norms set by the National Medical Commission (NMC) to ensure smooth functioning of medical colleges.

At a monthly review of the teaching hospitals through a video conference, Rao said the State was rapidly emerging as a hub for quality healthcare services and medical education. He expressed satisfaction with significant progress achieved in the healthcare sector.

“Telangana now ranks third in the country in the field of healthcare, with the goal of achieving the top position. In the past year, eight medical colleges were established, and this year, nine more medical colleges are scheduled to commence classes with 100 MBBS seats each. Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao’s goal is to attract students who would otherwise seek education abroad and provide them with access to quality super-specialty medicine”.

“To achieve this, the government is committed to granting medical colleges, doctor posts, and necessary medical equipment”, the minister said. He wanted officials to ensure strict measures to curb ragging and inculcate discipline among MBBS students.

“Faculty members should serve as role models, provide mental support to students, and inspire them as they embark on their journey in this noble profession. Additionally, incorporating activities like yoga and pranayama to relieve mental stress and enhance students' well-being is highly recommended”, Rao stressed. He wanted use of services of 800 Post-Graduate Senior Residents (SRs) allocated to medical colleges and Vaidya Vidhana Parishad main hospitals in districts to be maximised.

Stating that the superintendents were responsible for managing clinical hospitals, the minister wanted round-the-clock services to be provided, particularly in the emergency department, to ensure better treatment. Referrals should be minimised, and the focus should be on providing specialised services within a district. He stressed on the need to reduce the C-sections and promotion of first-hour breastfeeding.