New Family Medicine Clinic Opens Its Doors in Rawalpindi Hospital
A Specialized Approach to Patient Care at Holy Family Hospital
Holy Family Hospital in Rawalpindi has introduced a groundbreaking 10-bed family medicine clinic, a landmark achievement for the region. This innovative approach to healthcare aims to provide comprehensive medical care to patients of all ages under one roof, addressing a wide range of ailments.
While initially accommodating 10 beds, the clinic’s capacity is set to double to 20 beds in the near future. The establishment of this specialized clinic marks a significant step forward in northern Punjab, pioneering the family medicine specialization. MBBS graduates will now have the opportunity to specialize in this field before entering general practice.
“Historically, family physicians in the region have practiced without specialized training,” explained a hospital spokesperson. “This new clinic will reform
the landscape, ensuring that family physicians have the expertise to provide top-tier care to their patients.”
The clinic’s launch was made possible through the generous support of Dr. Zahid Raffique, a distinguished alumnus of Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU). Dr. Raffique, now specializing in family medicine in Canada, recognized the need for this specialized approach to healthcare in his homeland and stepped forward to make it a reality.
This model of care aligns with established practices in highly developed healthcare systems like the United States and the United Kingdom. By prioritizing specialized training for family physicians, patients benefit from a more comprehensive and informed approach to their healthcare needs.
In preparation for this transformative shift, RMU launched a certificate course three years ago and a diploma course in family medicine two years ago. More than 40 doctors have already successfully completed these programs, demonstrating a growing interest in this specialized field.
The family medicine clinic, currently staffed with 10 beds, is slated to expand its capacity by adding another 10 beds within the indoor facility. Nurses working in the clinic will also receive specialized training, ensuring a cohesive and patient-centered approach to care.
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Facility has 30 beds at present; RMU VC says two more teaching hospitals in Pindi to get the same
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This groundbreaking initiative is not limited to Holy Family Hospital. The RMU plans to introduce similar family medicine clinics in two other teaching hospitals within the garrison city, ensuring wider access to specialized care for the community. Residents of Jhelum to Attock will also be able to benefit from these specialized services, signifying a significant advancement in healthcare accessibility.
“This unique initiative is currently only available in a handful of private hospitals across the country,”
specified the spokesperson.
Challenge Accepted: Elevating Healthcare Education
Beyond expanding access to specialized care, the RMU remains committed to enhancing medical education. “Our aim is to equip our graduates with the knowledge and skills to effectively address common health problems faced by the community,” stated the spokesperson. “We focus on imparting evidence-based clinical knowledge, empowering them with modern examination skills while ensuring they understand the importance of good healthcare facilities.”
Expanding Healthcare Services: A Multi-Pronged Approach
In addition to the new family medicine clinic, Holy Family Hospital has expanded its service offerings with the introduction of several other specialized clinics.
These include a dedicated geriatric clinic specializing in the unique healthcare needs of the elderly, a pain relief department, and a stroke management clinic, all offering free treatment to patients. The Punjab government has allocated additional funds to support these important additions to the healthcare infrastructure.
“Geriatrics is medically specializing care for older adults,” explained Dr. Butt, HFH’s Medical Superintendent. “Our aim is to enhance the well-being of our senior citizens by preventing, diagnosing and treating various diseases. ”
These new clinics currently operate on designated days, and with the graduation of more specialists, the hospital plans to increase their operational days, making these vital services even more accessible to the community.
The recent revitalization of Holy Family Hospital has brought significant changes, including the establishment of a new neurological department. With the addition of dedicated beds for this department, patients requiring neurological care now have access to the specialized care they need.
The continuous commitment by the RMU and Holy Family Hospital to introduce cutting-edge healthcare services underlines their dedication to serving the community with compassion and expertise, ultimately improving the health and well-being of the population they serve.
How does the establishment of this specialized clinic align with global trends in medical education and healthcare delivery?
## Interview: A New Era of Family Medicine in Rawalpindi
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. We’re delighted to have Dr. Alex Reed, a leading expert in family medicine, joining us today. Dr. Alex Reed, a new family medicine clinic has just opened its doors at Holy Family Hospital in Rawalpindi, and it seems this is a major step forward for healthcare in the region. Can you tell us more about this innovative approach?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Absolutely. This clinic is a truly groundbreaking initiative. It establishes a dedicated space for family medicine, a field that until now hasn’t had the specialized focus it deserves in this region.
**Host:** So, what does this mean for patients?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** It means access to more comprehensive care. Family medicine doctors, like myself, are trained to treat patients of all ages, addressing a wide range of health concerns. This clinic, with its specialized focus, ensures that these doctors have the most up-to-date knowledge and skills to provide truly excellent care [[1](https://www.beaumont.org/health-wellness/blogs/choosing-between-a-family-medicine-doctor-and-an-internal-medicine-doctor)].
**Host:** And it seems this isn’t just about improving care at Holy Family Hospital, but also about transforming medical education?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** You’re right. The Rawalpindi Medical University is leading the charge in establishing specialized training for family physicians. This aligns with best practices seen in developed healthcare systems like the United States and the UK. By investing in this specialized training, we’re ensuring future generations of doctors are well-equipped to meet the healthcare needs of the community.
**Host:** What are your hopes for the future of family medicine in this region?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** My hope is that this new clinic serves as a model for other hospitals to follow. By expanding access to specialized family medicine care, we can truly make a difference in the lives of patients and families throughout the region.
**Host:** Dr. Alex Reed, thank you so much for sharing your invaluable insights with us today.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** You’re very welcome.
**Host:** To our viewers, be sure to stay tuned for more exciting developments in healthcare.
