AIIMS Bhopal Launches DM in Pediatric Endocrinology

A major milestone in pediatric medical education, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhopal recently launched a Doctorate of Medicine (DM) course in Pediatric Endocrinology. This move makes AIIMS Bhopal the third medical institution in India to offer this specialized course after AIIMS Delhi and Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh.

The new DM program specifically focuses on teaching medical experts to diagnose and treat complex hormonal disorders in children. The disorders involve Type 1 Diabetes, growth disorders, thyroid disorders, obesity, bone ailments, and other endocrine disorders. The course aims to provide specialists with the expertise needed to treat the rising incidence of these conditions among the child population.

Dr. Ajai Singh, Director of AIIMS Bhopal, particularly highlighted the program's contribution towards making healthcare more accessible. He said, "The DM course in Pediatric Endocrinology is not only an intellectual accomplishment but a tangible step towards increasing access to health services. By undertaking this course, we are laying the groundwork for specialist services not only in Madhya Pradesh but throughout other states in the country".

Looking into the dire lack of pediatric endocrinologists in India, Dr. Mahesh Maheshwari, Head of Pediatric Endocrinology unit at AIIMS Bhopal, said that the programme is an effort to address this shortage by developing specialists who can comprehend and manage complicated hormonal diseases in children. He stated to The Hans India, "This course represents a significant advancement in ensuring better health for children."

Adding to its mission of child healthcare, AIIMS Bhopal intends to partner with the state health department for setting up Pediatric Diabetes Clinics at the district level. These clinics will provide technical support and enhance the healthcare system's ability to effectively manage pediatric endocrine disorders.

Dr. Shikha Malik, Head of the Department of Pediatrics at AIIMS Bhopal, emphasized that the department is consistently working towards improving specialty care. She noted that the department hosts a 'Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic' every Tuesday and a 'Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes Clinic' every Friday, which benefits many children.

The establishment of the DM program in Pediatric Endocrinology in AIIMS Bhopal is a strategic step in strengthening specialized medical education and filling the increasing demand for specialized care in pediatric hormonal disease. With the expansion of its academic programs and healthcare facilities, AIIMS Bhopal plays a vital role in advancing medical education and improving child health in India.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)