Jupiter Hospital leads World Emergency Medicine Day, emphasizing the urgent need for improved emergency medical care infrastructure and training in India

Today marks World Emergency Medicine Day, a global initiative aimed at uniting the population and decision-makers to recognize, increase awareness, and discuss the critical importance of the relatively new specialty of Emergency Medicine (EM).

On the eve of World Emergency Medicine Day, an academic event was organized at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune in collaboration with the Society for Emergency Medicine, India, bringing together practicing emergency medicine doctors from various hospitals across Pune.

The specialty of Emergency Medicine, though novel, has been an established field for over five decades in the Western world. In India, it gained formal recognition only in 2009. The need for emergency medical care in India cannot be underestimated. According to the latest census, cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses account for approximately 42% of mortality, while injuries and poisonings contribute up to 5.6%. These conditions often have a sudden onset and require prompt emergency medical interventions to prevent fatalities.

Dr. Ravi Pratap, Consultant – Emergency Medicine, Jupiter Hospital convened the meeting, which is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. Dr. Shweta Tyagi from Bharati Vidyapeeth spoke on the challenges faced by the specialty and how to take them in stride and move forward. Dr. Dhyaneshwar Shelke from Maharashtra Emergency Medical Services and Dr. Prasad Rajhans from Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital elaborated on the journey of EMS in Maharashtra and how to bridge the gaps and implement these lessons in today’s Emergency Departments. Heads of Emergency Departments from KEM Hospital, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital & Research Centre, D Y Patil Medical College Hospital, and Bharati Vidyapeeth (DU) Medical College all shared their valuable insights. A quiz was conducted for the trainees of Emergency Medicine, with the team from Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital emerging as the winner.

“As we observe World Emergency Medicine Day, let us acknowledge the dedication of emergency medical professionals and continue to advocate for the advancement of this vital specialty. The significance of Emergency Medicine lies in its ability to provide immediate care during the most critical moments. Our goal is to ensure that every patient receives timely and effective treatment, ultimately saving lives, said Dr. Rajendra Patankar, CEO, Jupiter Hospital, Pune.