Family Medicine programs in Pakistan needs to be strengthened- Dr. Jalil Khan
LAHORE: Family Medicine Department at Lady Reading Hospital recently organized a symposium titled “The Future Paradigm of Family Medicine in KPK” on January 19, 2024, at the LRH Auditorium.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Tariq Aziz President of the Pakistan Society of Family Physicians and Board Member of WONCA Committee on Ethics and Professionalism discussed the current state of primary care in Pakistan, emphasizing the chaos arising from a lack of clarity, bureaucratic hurdles, and the undue influence of other specialties. He passionately advocated for Family Medicine as a remedy, stressing its role in making primary care cost-effective and reducing morbidity. Dr. Aziz outlined strategies for change, including the establishment of community outreach clinics and self-sufficient services. He addressed challenges in faculty requirements, proposing a roadmap involving MCPS, MRCGP INT, and FRCGP Australia. Initiatives by PMDC were highlighted, focusing on the utilization of human resources and the financial benefits of telemedicine services. If this roadmap is implemented, it promises to revolutionize healthcare in Pakistan, making it more accessible, cost-effective, and tailored to the needs of the population.
Dr. Jalil Khan from KMU Peshawar discussed strategies aimed at fortifying Family Medicine programs. Dr. Khan emphasized the role of continuous improvement, ensuring that educational curricula align with the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. He provided insights into strengthening Family Medicine programs in Pakistan. Conducting a comparative analysis of global models, addressing the reality of Primary Healthcare (PHC) in Pakistan, and proposing strategies for improvement. He emphasized the importance of creating a robust system that optimizes primary healthcare delivery. He proposed a comprehensive staffing model for Family Medicine programs in Pakistan, outlining various types of staff and their allocation in the main department clinic and five satellite clinics. The model encompasses Consultant Family Physicians, Trainee Medical Officers specializing in Family Medicine, those on rotation from other specialties, Associate Specialists, House Officers, Nurse Practitioners, Health Care Assistants, Managerial staff, and Information Technology personnel. The structured approach ensures a balanced distribution of healthcare professionals, fostering effective care delivery and management across the main clinic and satellite locations. This model serves as a strategic framework for optimizing staffing resources and enhancing the quality of Family Medicine services in Pakistan.
Earlier Dr. Sumaira Bakhtiar Head of the Family Medicine Department at LRH, extended a cordial welcome to the distinguished speakers and the participants. (PR)
