CHANDIGARH,24.04.24-“Facing drug resistance in leprosy is like dealing with tougher bugs that don't respond well to medicine. It's important to find new ways to fight them so we can keep helping people get better." said Dr. Tarun Narang, Additional Professor, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, PGIMER Chandigarh while addressing districts and state officials of Odisha during the visit to the Leprosy Clinic at the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, PGIMER Chandigarh. This field visit was part of 4-day Management Development Program commenced at PGIMER Chandigarh, from April 23rd to April 26th, 2024. During field visit, the consultants witnessed firsthand demonstrations of crucial diagnostic procedures and innovative approaches aimed at combating leprosy and its challenges.At the Skin Lab of the Leprosy Skin Clinic, delegates were provided with insights into slit skin smear examinations.
Dr. Sanjeev Handa, Head of the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology at PGIMER, expressed his admiration, stating, "The Management Development Program for Leprosy consultants of NHM Odisha has showcased exemplary dedication to advancing leprosy control and sharing of best practices."The visit to Department of Microbiology at PGIMER demonstrated the process of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for drug resistance, shedding light on the institution's proactive approach in tackling drug-resistant strains of leprosy.
Dr. Manjeet Pal, State Leprosy Consultant, Chandigarh, while interacting with patients highlighted the importance of holistic care and destigmatization during the visit, "Interacting with individuals affected by leprosy underscores the need for compassionate healthcare delivery, requiring patient counselling along with the pharmacological approach" said Dr. Manjeet Pal.
The program will employ diverse learning methodologies such as case studies, management games, quizzes, role plays, videos, and mobile applications. A panel discussion titled "Leprosy Control: Bridging Perspectives from State Consultants and Tertiary Care Facility" is scheduled on day 3, featuring experts including Dr. Tarun Narang, Additional Professor at PGIMER, Dr. Rita Kotwal, State Leprosy Consultant, Haryana, and Dr. Sheenam Aggarwal, State Leprosy Consultant from Punjab. Besides this, the delegates will learn soft skills like team building, effective communication, stress and time management, during the program.
The culmination of the program will witness the formulation and presentation of an action plan tailored for the state of Odisha. The program will end on April 26th, 2024, with a valedictory ceremony honouring outstanding participants across various categories.