Union Minister Advocates for Return of Family Doctors at National Conference

Union Minister Dr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary emphasized the need to reinstate family doctors to reduce hospital visits during the 6th National Conference of Family Medicine and Primary Care. He highlighted multiple health schemes and the extension of Ayushman Bharat benefits, urging doctors to serve in rural areas.

Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Dr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary, has underscored the urgent need to reintroduce the concept of family doctors, asserting that their scarcity is forcing more patients to seek hospital treatment.

Speaking at the 6th National Conference of Family Medicine and Primary Care held at AIIMS-Rishikesh on October 28-29, Choudhary stressed the importance of training family doctors to build a robust health system. He also highlighted various central government-sponsored health programs.

The minister announced the expansion of Ayushman Bharat's health insurance benefits to individuals aged 70 and above. He praised the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana and noted India's successful vaccination efforts during the Covid pandemic. National Health System Resource Center Director Dr. Atul Kotwal echoed the importance of regular rural visits by doctors. Former cricketer Madan Lal inaugurated a family health campaign on the same occasion.

(With inputs from agencies.)