The National Institute of Health and Family Welfare (NIHFW), a premier institution specializing in training, research, and capacity-building in the healthcare sector, is introducing a new course aimed at fostering better relationships between doctors and patients. This initiative seeks to address conflicts and enhance communication within healthcare settings.
Speaking to ANI, NIHFW Director Dr. Dheeraj Shah stated, “The hospital administration courses at NIHFW already include elements related to conflict avoidance, conflict management, and communication skills. Additionally, we offer specialized courses for healthcare professionals to train them in communication, leadership, time management, and other soft skills.”
Dr. Shah further elaborated on the new initiative, saying, “We are proposing a new course specifically for doctors, which will cover medical legal issues, effective communication strategies, and improved patient management techniques. This will help establish a healthier doctor-patient relationship while minimizing conflicts.”
Regarding the course rollout, he added, “Our training programs run throughout the year, and this particular course is expected to be launched within the next three to four months. We have already secured approval from the program advisory committee.”
The NIHFW Director also highlighted other academic and training programs offered by the institute. “We train professionals responsible for administering health and family welfare programs across the country. We do this through education, training, capacity building, research, and consultancy. Our educational programs include a three-year MD course in Community Health Administration, a Diploma in Health Administration, a Master’s in Public Health, and a PhD in Public Health. We also offer six distance-learning courses, including one in hospital administration. In addition, we conduct 100 to 150 physical training sessions annually on various topics, such as health administration, hospital administration, communication skills, universal health coverage, and digital health regulation,” he explained.
With this new initiative, NIHFW aims to equip doctors with essential skills to improve patient interactions and foster a more effective and harmonious healthcare environment.
