Theme- Take the rights path: My health, my right
The Patient Safety Committee of HIMSR and HAHC Hospital organised a panel discussion and awareness event to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 3, 2024. The theme of the event, “Take the rights path: My health, my right” emphasised the global commitment to eradicating HIV/AIDS while promoting awareness about human rights and patient safety. The event was held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM in LT-1, HIMSR, and brought together experts, healthcare professionals, and medical students to share insights and engage in meaningful dialogue. It was attended by over 200 attendees, including Doctors, Nursing officers, students, and other supporting staff.
The session commenced with a warm welcome by Dr. Bhumika Upadhyay, Assistant Professor of Biochemistry, who served as the emcee. She set the tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. Prof. Musharraf Husain, Medical Superintendent of HAHC Hospital, delivered the opening remarks. He highlighted HIMSR’s unwavering dedication to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and fostering a culture of patient safety and inclusivity.
Key Sessions
- Things That Everyone Should Know About HIV/AIDS
Delivered by Dr. Aqsa Shaikh, Professor of Community Medicine and Patient Safety Officer, this session provided an overview of the critical facts about HIV/AIDS. Dr. Aqsa addressed misconceptions, the latest developments in treatment, and the importance of stigma-free care.
- Panel Discussion: “HIV & Human Rights”
Moderated by Dr. Aqsa Shaikh, this panel brought together esteemed speakers:
– Vibhavari Deshmukh, National Consultant, HCTS and EVTHS, NACO
– Anjali Gopalan, Executive Director, Naz Foundation Trust
– Abhina Aher, Senior Advisor on HIV and Equity, USAID
– Dr. Sukriti Chauhan, CEO, ETI
The panel discussion served as a cornerstone of the event, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities surrounding HIV and human rights. The speakers shared their expertise on a range of topics, including the importance of equitable healthcare access, the role of policy advocacy, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
Dr. Vibhavari emphasized the critical role of national programs in addressing HIV-related health disparities and fostering collaboration between government and civil society. Anjali Gopalan spoke passionately about combating stigma and discrimination, stressing the need for community-led initiatives to ensure dignity and equality for individuals living with HIV.
Abhina Aher highlighted the intersection of gender, equity, and HIV, sharing her experiences in promoting inclusive healthcare practices. Dr. Sukriti Chauhan offered insights into innovative approaches for enhancing awareness and integrating HIV services into broader health systems.
Attendees found the discussion highly enriching, with many expressing that it broadened their perspectives on HIV/AIDS as a human rights issue. Attendees were provided with chits to write their questions anonymously, if they wished, along with an interactive Q&A session, that allowed participants to engage directly with the panelists, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
- Initiatives at HIMSR
Dr. Vineet Jain, Professor of Medicine and Incharge of the ART Centre, highlighted HIMSR’s ongoing efforts to support individuals with HIV/AIDS. He shared insights into the institution’s advancements in treatment and its role in community outreach programs.
The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Prem Kapoor, Professor of Medicine, who commended the organizers and participants for fostering a thought-provoking dialogue. He reiterated the need for continued collaboration to achieve the global goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
Dr. Asma Aftab, Senior Resident in the Department of Community Medicine, concluded the event with a vote of thanks.
The World AIDS Day 2024 commemoration event at HIMSR successfully highlighted the critical role of awareness, education, and advocacy in combating HIV/AIDS. By fostering discussions around patient safety, human rights, and institutional initiatives, the event reinforced HIMSR’s commitment to creating a world free of AIDS and discrimination. The insights shared during the sessions will undoubtedly inspire ongoing efforts to achieve this vision.
