To resuscitate family doc tradition, GMC mulls special MD course

Panaji: GMC is contemplating the introduction of an MD course focused on family physicians. GMC dean Dr S M Bandekar said the family physician tradition is fading away and people are forced to visit a hospital for even the mildest disease.

But if GMC’s new course is introduced, family physicians’ practice will receive a revitalising shot.

Back in the day, these medical practitioners would visit patients at home carrying a quaint big bag, conduct examinations, and administer a single injection to treat fever, Bandekar told TOI

. He added that such doctors charged modest fees and demonstrated genuine compassion for their patients.

“When I had cough and cold, my father took me to our family physician. This excellent healthcare approach is gradually vanishing because medical graduates are not satisfied with modest earnings after completing their MBBS,” Bandekar said. “They aspire to higher income opportunities. The sight of new vehicles daily creates an impact. While some remain committed to family practice, peer pressure is constant.”

Bandekar added, “When one observes their colleagues pursuing higher education or sporting premium brands, one is reluctant to choose family medicine as a career.” He went on to say, “This perceived notion of inferiority among medical professionals has led to the decline of family physicians.”

Giving an example, Bandekar said individuals with hypertension undergoing treatment face difficulties in finding someone to monitor their blood pressure. He said when visiting an MD, patients encounter long queues, and due to the high patient load, the physician often delegates blood pressure checks to nurses.

“There is a pressing need for family physicians in today’s healthcare situation,” Bandekar said. “Hence, we are planning to introduce a specialised course.”

He said a family physician with an MD will maintain their professional standing and earn respect in the medical community, and they can confidently cite their specialisation in family medicine rather than general medicine. He said they will receive guidance on criteria and curriculum, establishing a well-regarded stature.

“When interacting with peers who hold an MD in medicine, they can assert their equivalent status,” Bandekar said. “Additionally, this specialisation may allow them to command better consultation fees.”