Srinagar, September: Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) today inaugurated a National Conference on Medico-Legal Aspects of Healthcare, drawing experts, faculty, and delegates from across the country to deliberate on pressing medico-legal challenges in hospital settings.
In his inaugural address, Director SKIMS and EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, emphasized the institute’s priority of “renewing the legacy of SKIMS with accountability and quality care.” He highlighted the reforms introduced under his leadership, including the establishment of an Audit Committee, Equipment Committee, and regular Morbidity & Mortality assessments to ensure transparency and strengthen patient care.
Prof. Ganie welcomed the government’s recent decision to restrict unnecessary referrals to SKIMS, stressing that unwarranted patient load burdens the institute and undermines its specialized mandate. He also urged healthcare professionals to maintain compassion, discipline, and professionalism in their interactions with patients, while directing strict adherence to confidentiality, proper documentation, and legible prescriptions.
The inaugural session was attended by eminent medical professionals including former Medical Superintendent SKIMS, Prof. Syed Amin Tabish, as Guest of Honour, and former HOD Medicine, Prof. Abdul Wahid, as Special Guest. Both speakers underlined the importance of a robust healthcare structure to address medico-legal complexities.
Dean Medical Faculty SKIMS commended the organizing team, noting that the conference would provide valuable insights for practitioners facing rising medico-legal demands. In his welcome address, Medical Superintendent SKIMS and Organising Chairman expressed gratitude for the strong participation from delegates, faculty, and students. HoD Hospital Administration, Prof. G.H. Yatoo, also highlighted the importance of strengthening administrative frameworks to effectively navigate medico-legal intricacies.
The scientific sessions covered diverse topics such as an “Overview of Medico-Legal Cases in India” and “Medico-Legal Compliance in Hospitals: From Registration to Postmortem Protocols.” The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Soozan Jalali.
The conference was hailed as a significant step in fostering academic discourse on medico-legal issues, with participants affirming that such initiatives ultimately translate into better healthcare delivery and patient safety.
