A New Era in Arunachal's Healthcare System
In a significant stride for the state's healthcare infrastructure, the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) in Arunachal Pradesh has marked its presence on the national medical platform. The institute, which was established as a medical college-cum-hospital in 2017, has been making waves with its impressive achievements.
From Humble Beginnings to Achievements Galore
Initially, the TRIHMS started with an academic session for 50 students in 2018. The institute's first batch of MBBS students recently made history by passing out in May 2024, with 49 students receiving their degrees during the first convocation. This milestone was hailed as a significant achievement for the state's healthcare system by the Chief Minister, Pema Khandu.
Expanding Horizons: Postgraduate Courses and Super-specialties
Following the success of the first batch, the TRIHMS introduced three-year Diplomate of National Board (DNB) postgraduate courses in various specialties in 2020. These courses, accredited by NBEMS, provide advanced medical training in Arunachal Pradesh, addressing the demand for specialists in the region. The introduction of these DNB programmes is a significant step for the TRIHMS, allowing experienced doctors to pursue postgraduate studies and enhancing specialist care in the state.
Strengthening Emergency Care and Intake Capacity
In addition to postgraduate courses, the TRIHMS has also established a state-of-the-art emergency and trauma care unit, significantly boosting emergency response in the region. The unit, in collaboration with AIIMS New Delhi, features advanced facilities like 32-slice CT scans, modular OTs, and a triage system. The TRIHMS has also introduced super-specialties with advanced imaging like 256-slice CT and 3 Tesla MRI, and the number of beds has increased to 450.
Quality Education Yields Exceptional Results
The students of the first batch of the TRIHMS have proven the quality of education they received by securing PG seats in large numbers. Out of 49 students, 25 qualified for PG seats, which is far more than expectation. This success reflects the dedication of the students, the tireless efforts of the faculty members, and the strong institutional support system.
Implications for North East India and Beyond
The achievements of the TRIHMS have far-reaching implications for the North East region and India as a whole. By providing advanced medical training and specialist care, the TRIHMS is helping to address the acute shortage of specialists in the region. This, in turn, will improve the overall quality of healthcare services in the North East and contribute to the country's goal of Universal Health Coverage.
A Legacy for Posterity
The establishment of the TRIHMS is a testament to the vision and determination of individuals like Shakuntala Gamlin, Dorjee Khandu, and Dr Moji Jini. Their efforts have not only transformed the healthcare landscape in Arunachal Pradesh but have also set a precedent for other states in the region. The TRIHMS is poised to become a leading medical institution, benefiting needy people for generations to come.