Role of general practitioners in primary health care
Goyal, R.C.; Sachdeva, N.L.
Journal of the Indian Medical Association 94(2): 60-61
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5847 PMID: 8810180 Document Number: 455954
This news brief discusses the important role of general practitioners (GPs) in providing primary health care in India. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is committed to achieving the goal of "Health for All by the Year 2000." The IMA aims to provide health care to the needy rural population with the help of voluntary organizations, to improve the science and art of medicine, to provide primary health care in communities, and to practice sound medicine. GPs are at the center of the medical community and link the community to hospitals. GPs must become members of the IMA, take refresher and continuing medical education courses, and keep pace with the changing technology. GPs must visit hospitals and make rounds in addition to attending lectures. GPs must be knowledgeable about referrals and provide prompt referrals to medical specialists. Properly trained GPs can serve as supervisors of paramedical staff. The involvement of GPs in the National Health Program will determine its success. Community welfare is dependent upon GPs and their role in prevention and control of communicable diseases and in managing epidemics. Almost 66% of the population relies on the services of GPs. Only 23% seek medical help from government hospitals. It is necessary for all GPs to be involved in the goals of "Health for All." Success will depend upon the provision of primary health care in rural areas by government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and the huge network of GPs.