IMA conference in Kozhikode aims to empower medical practitioners

A medical conference held here on Sunday (July 19, 2026) called for steps to strengthen the role of general practitioners in public health to reduce the cost of treatment.

Titled ‘CGPCON 2026’, the conference was organized by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) College of General Practitioners, its oldest academic wing based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. About 300 doctors from all over South India participated in it.

Organizers pointed to a trend among a section of people to either ignore their ailments or directly approach specialist doctors, saying this has led to high healthcare costs. Many clinics and small hospitals in the country have also closed. “Vulnerability and mortality from emerging diseases are very high among those with various co-morbidities. In a facility where the GP system is the core of medical care, the incidence of civilization diseases and complications related to civilization diseases will be very less,” said Sankar Mahadevan, the organizing chairman of the conference.

He said that in all developed countries around the world, the first primary care of general practitioners is mandatory for any ailment. Approaching a general practitioner for a quick examination and primary care would always ensure a better health outcome, he added. The conference also urged the government to post family doctors in all taluk and district hospitals with immediate effect. Establishing a good referral system in healthcare is also a must, organizers said.

About 10 papers were presented on common human diseases and modern treatment methods. This was followed by a panel discussion for family doctors and general practitioners. An emergency training workshop was organized for the delegates. Postgraduate medical students also presented their research works.

IMA National Vice President R. Ramesh inaugurated the event. IMA national, state and regional functionaries spoke. Oliver Noone, an eminent doctor from Kozhikode, received the award in memory of A. Ramanathan, an eminent general practitioner from the city.

Published – 19 Jul 2026 19:10 IST