50% OPD consultations attributed to respiratory symptoms, say experts

 

 

 

The decision of National Medical Commission (NMC) to omit of Respiratory Medicine from India's Medical Curriculum has shocked everyone. The Chest experts have expressed disappointment over the development where Respiratory Medicine became a part of neglect at Government Medial College and Hospital (GMCH) The prevalence of respiratory afflictions has surged, with a 50% of outpatient consultations in hospitals and clinics now attributed to respiratory symptoms. India faces a dual nemesis: the age-old scourge of tuberculosis (TB), particularly its multi- drug-resistant form (MDR-TB), and the lingering spectre of the COVID-19 pandemic, pointed out Dr Radha Munje, noted Chest ailment specialist.

 

The National Medical Commission (NMC) made bewildering move, striking Respiratory Medicine from the roster of essential departments in the MBBS curriculum. This decision, shrouded in controversy. This omission not only jeopardised India’s battle against TB but also casts a long shadow over the nation’s readiness to combat future pandemics and public health crises, felt Dr Rajesh Swarnakar, former Secretary of Indian Chest Society. The medical community has mobilised swiftly. In the past month alone, over 50 urgent letters have been dispatched to the Prime Minister, the Health Ministry, and the NMC by respiratory societies, NGOs, and medical associations, all pleading for a reversal of this decision. An eminent Vadodara based pulmonologist, Dr Neel Thakkar has garnered the signatures of over 10,000 concerned individuals, further amplifying the outcry for immediate action. The PIL, stands as a watershed moment in the relentless pursuit of reinstating Respiratory Medicine. During the court proceedings, the petitioners presented compelling arguments that the NMC’s decision contravenes Section 57 of the National Medical Commission Act, which mandates that 24 essential departments, including Respiratory Medicine, be integrated into medical education. The Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court, cognisant of the national ramifications, sternly reprimanded the NMC and Union of India for their failure to respond, issuing a warning that could result in adverse judicial consequences.

 

The removal of Respiratory Medicine from the MBBS curriculum is a decision of catastrophic proportions, with far-reaching implications for India’s healthcare system. Dr Munje said, “At a time when India is waging a war against tuberculosis, chronic respiratory diseases, the expertise provided by specialists in this field is irreplaceable. Without the reinstatement of Respiratory Medicine, India risks dismantling the very foundation of its healthcare infrastructure, leaving its citizens vulnerable to the respiratory illnesses. The collective resolve of India’s medical community, respiratory societies, and concerned citizens will ultimately determine whether the nation is equipped to face its health challenges with preparedness.”