GSMCH celebrates World Health Day

PATIALA: A function was organized by the Department of Community Medicine of the Gian Sagar Medical College and Hospital here today to mark the World Health Day.

Dr Bhupinder Gupta, head of the department, speaking on the occasion said the World Health Day 2009 focuses on the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers who treat people affected by emergencies. Health centers and staff provide vital health care in communities every day and in disasters, their services are in even greater demand.

Dr Gagandeep Kaur, from the department of community medicine said that a safe hospital which continues to function at optimum capacity during and after a disaster or other emergency is a safe haven that protects lives. Safe health facilities are a joint responsibility, requiring crucial support from other sectors to ensure essential life-lines. When health facilities stop functioning, it is a double blow to an already devastated community.

Dr A. S. Sekhon, Principal of the Gian Sagar Medical College and Hospital, recalling the importance of the World Health Day said that in 1948, the World Health Organization held the First World Health Assembly. The Assembly decided to celebrate April 7 of each year, with effect from 1950, as the World Health Day. The World Health Day is celebrated to create “awareness of a specific health theme to highlight a priority area of concern for the World Health Organization (WHO)”.

Dr Sekhon also said the Gian Sagar Educational and Charitable Trust was committed to providing quality healthcare facilities to the underprivileged and deserving sections of the society.