Protecting Doctors Our Prime Concern : Dr. K K Aggarwal, IMA President

ASHISH TIWARI (PHOTO/VIDEO SAURABH SHRIVASTAVA) TENNEWS

Intro: Padmashri, Cardiologist, DR. K K Aggarwal, National President of the Indian Medical Association for the year 2016-17, spoke to the Ten News and shed light on the issue of doctors’ protection.

He is a walking encyclopedia on medical profession, diseases, health issues and doctors concerns. Previously, he has launched many health awareness campaigns and adopted several important measures.

Here is the interview,
TN: What’s your reaction on recently concluded strike of Doctors?

KK: First of all, I would like to condemn it. Doctors of Maharashtra went to strike for certain reasons, which are somehow compelling and we have spoken to them. I would also like to add in it, that family of patient must control their anger during the treatment to maintain certain dignity of hospital.

TN: What is your expert view on the new health policy?
KK: According to me, so far new health policy looks fine, however there are certain areas that need to be reviewed and govt. should sharply look at it. We would also like to make some suggestions to govt. in future, if needed.

TN: What type of valuable suggestions, you want to make to state and union governments for betterment of Health services in India?
KK: There are many suggestions, including safety and security of doctors, good infrastructure for health services and better reach to people of rural places.

TN: Have you taken up the issue of providing security to doctors with authorities?

KK: Yes, we have taken up the issue to the union govt.of India and state govt of Maharashtra. Union Health Minister has promised us to provide protection and safety to doctors. We are hopeful after meeting union minister to get satisfactory results in the future.

TN: Which are the key issues on which IMA is occupied presently?

KK: First of all, IMA is concerned about protection of doctors and hospital staff, we are also looking forward to new health policy and other concerned areas of health and medical sector.

TN: Previously, you have spoken about framing a law for protection of doctors, what’s your reaction to this?

KK: Yes, there is a need of protection law. There are laws regarding safety and protection of doctors, however there should be a new law which would focus specifically on protection of doctors.

TN: Do you think there is a need of one common NEET in the entire nation, to stop any type of malpractices in the exams?

KK: There is a common entrance exam, however I would recommend a much specific common entrance exam which would cater to avoid malpractices in exams.

TN: Do you think, duration of MBBS course should be cut-down?
KK: Not exactly, however there should be a choice to take up preferred subjects in MBBS and MD courses, if someone wants to study ‘Orthopedic’, why would he study ‘Gynecology’.

TN: Private hospitals are flourishing whereas govt. hospital services are not up to the mark. Do you agree?

KK: I don’t agree to the statement. Both are completely different sectors.

TN: Like in various countries, doctors are getting rebate in Tax deduction, do you think it should be applicable in India also?
KK: Yes Indian govt. should work towards this issue. Doctors, especially who are posted in rural areas should get this benefit.

TN: What is your take on Mohalla clinics by Delhi govt.?
KK: That’s a very good concept, I appreciate it. Its basically for the betterment of Delhi.