DGHS Prof. (Dr) Atul Goel meets with representatives from over 27 Indian health bodies to discuss strategies for health promotion, the Healthy Campus Initiative, and tobacco control measures. (Image: PIB) 
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DGHS Chairs Key Meeting with Indian Health Bodies

DGHS engages with Indian health bodies: Focus on health promotion, the Healthy Campus Initiative, and tobacco control measures

Author : MBT Desk

  • Meeting Overview:

    • Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, chaired a hybrid meeting with representatives from over 27 major Indian health bodies.

    • The meeting focused on advancing key health initiatives, including the promotion of healthy diets, physical activity, and addressing risk factors for non-communicable diseases such as tobacco and alcohol.

  • Focus on Health Promotion and Prevention:

    • Dr. Goel emphasized the importance of redirecting healthcare resources towards disease prevention, rather than solely focusing on diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

    • The Healthy Medical/Dental College Campus Initiative was discussed, aiming to promote a culture of health and well-being in medical and dental institutions across India.

  • Tobacco and Alcohol Control:

    • Participants discussed strategies to reduce tobacco and alcohol use, including the strengthening of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act 2019.

    • The significance of implementing dietary and lifestyle changes to curb non-communicable diseases was highlighted, with a focus on public awareness and educational campaigns.

  • Declaration of Health Promotion:

    • All professional bodies present agreed to adopt a Declaration of Health Promotion and pledged to take active measures to support and promote health initiatives.

    • The participants stressed the importance of a collaborative approach, working closely with the Union Health Ministry to achieve health promotion goals.

The participants stressed the importance of a collaborative approach, working closely with the Union Health Ministry to achieve health promotion goals. (Representational Image: Unsplash)

  • Participants and Commitments:

    • The meeting included Dr. L. Swasticharan, Additional DDG & Director EMR, along with senior officials from the Union Health Ministry.

    • Health professional bodies such as the National Medical Commission (NMC), World Health Organization (WHO), Indian Medical Association (IMA), and others participated.

    • The collective commitment was made to enhance public health through education, awareness, and policy advocacy, focusing on reducing tobacco use, alcohol abuse, and other health risk factors.

  • Outcomes and Future Steps:

    • The meeting reaffirmed the Ministry's dedication to improving public health and well-being through proactive and collaborative measures.

    • The health bodies pledged to work together with the Ministry to further health promotion initiatives, ensuring a healthier future for the nation.

(Rehash/Pratiksha Jadhav/MSM)

Also read:Patients’ Medical Records Should Have Documentation of All Referrals: Guidelines Issued by DGHS

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