Patna: The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) organised a national academic programme on communication in healthcare at AIIMS Patna on July 5, bringing together more than 700 medical educators, clinicians, postgraduate trainees and healthcare professionals from across the country.
Held under the theme “From Empathy to Patient Safety: Strengthening Professional Communication in Clinical Practice,” the programme focused on the role of communication in improving patient safety, treatment outcomes and the doctor-patient relationship.
Deputy Chief Minister Inaugurates Programme
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary inaugurated the event as the chief guest, while National Medical Commission (NMC) Chairman Dr Abhijat Sheth attended as the guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, Choudhary said effective communication and empathy help strengthen public confidence in healthcare and improve the quality of patient care. He also welcomed NBEMS’ efforts to integrate communication skills into postgraduate medical education.
Dr Sheth said communication, compassion and professionalism are essential qualities for medical practitioners and stressed that medical education should prepare doctors who combine clinical expertise with meaningful patient interaction.
Focus On Communication In Clinical Practice
The day-long programme featured lectures, panel discussions and case-based learning sessions on patient-centred consultations, empathy in clinical practice, breaking bad news, conflict resolution, inter-professional collaboration and communication skills training.
According to the organisers, the sessions were designed to help healthcare professionals apply evidence-based communication practices in everyday clinical settings.
AIIMS Patna Highlights Patient-Centred Care
Welcoming participants, AIIMS Patna Executive Director Prof. (Brig.) Dr Raju Agarwal said quality healthcare depends on combining scientific knowledge with empathy and respectful communication.
He reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to training healthcare professionals capable of delivering patient-centred care.
Organised Under NBEMS Initiative
The programme reflected NBEMS’ initiative to establish communication in healthcare as a core component of postgraduate medical education under the guidance of its leadership.
The event was organised under the guidance of Prof. (Brig.) Dr Raju Agarwal, with Dr Mukta Agarwal serving as the organising secretary and overseeing the planning and coordination of the programme.
Emphasis On Professional Competency
According to NBEMS, the programme reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening communication as a professional competency in medical education.
The organisers said the initiative aims to equip future healthcare professionals with both clinical skills and effective communication practices to support safer and more patient-centred healthcare delivery.
