KALYAN: Stressing the urgent need for a robust disaster response system, Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) commissioner Abhinav Goel urged the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Kalyan, to work closely with civic authorities to develop a standard operating procedure (SOP) for medical emergencies.Speaking as the chief guest at the IMA Kalyan installation ceremony, Goel said the existing disaster management mechanism needs improvement, as patients are often shifted between multiple hospitals during disaster crises. He suggested that IMA and KDMC doctors jointly conduct workshops to design a clear SOP for situations such as building collapses and floods, ensuring coordinated and efficient medical care.Goel was speaking at the event of the appointment of the new IMA Kalyan executive committee, with noted orthopaedic surgeon Dr Rajesh Raghav Raju elected as the 46th president. Dr Himanshu Thakkar took charge as secretary and Dr Swati Shelar as treasurer.Mumbai Orthopaedic Society president Dr Gautam Zaveri, who was present at the event, spoke about the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. He said that while AI can assist in treating diseases, it cannot replace doctors, who bring empathy and a human touch to patient care.Addressing the gathering, Dr Raju highlighted IMA Kalyan’s legacy of social service and announced plans to organise a mega health camp for residents with support from leading super-speciality hospitals.Former IMA president Dr Surekha Itkar, KDMC officials and several members of the medical fraternity and civic society attended the programme.
