NMMTA hosts 5th Annual Conference on AI and Diagnostic Advancements

The National M.Sc Medical Teachers’ Association (NMMTA) held its 5th Annual Conference on AI and Diagnostic Advancements. The event focused on the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, with participants discussing how these innovations can enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient management.

NMMTA President Dr Arjun Maitra said, “AI can enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline patient management, and transform healthcare delivery, emphasizing the critical need for ongoing dialogue and adaptation within the medical community.” Dr Maitra also described the conference as a “homecoming” for professionals, highlighting the connections formed during the event. He expressed hope for even greater participation in future conferences.

This year’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence & Current Diagnostic Advancements in Healthcare System,” aligned with trends in medical research. Attendees discussed AI’s potential to improve patient outcomes and influence the future of diagnostics. The conference was attended by notable figures, including Dr Harbans Lal, a pioneer of the ELISA test in India, and Pankaj Mishra, Registrar R&D of Shri Guru Ram Rai University.

The programme featured lectures from various speakers. Dr Rajesh Bareja, Professor of Microbiology at World Medical College, Jhajjar, presented a session on the use of AI in research publications. He explained how AI can enhance data analysis and streamline the research process. Dr Sukhes Mukherjee, Professor of Biochemistry at AIIMS Bhopal, discussed “Advancements in Diagnostic Biochemistry and the Role of Artificial Intelligence,” showcasing AI’s potential to revolutionise diagnostics.

Dr Arjun Maitra led a session on ‘Pulse Wave Analysis’, discussing its role in assessing arterial health and cardiovascular parameters. Another session, led by Dr Damini Singh and Dr Vipin Sharma of Spectevo Technologies, focused on the process of setting up diagnostic laboratories, covering aspects from planning to commissioning.

Challenges faced by medical educators were also addressed. Dr Maitra and NMMTA General Secretary Dr Ayan Das recently met with Health Minister Shri JP Nadda to discuss staffing shortages in medical colleges due to National Medical Commission (NMC) regulations. They expressed concerns about how these regulations impact the quality of education and training. Minister Nadda requested a comprehensive report detailing the challenges faced by medical institutions. Dr Maitra said, “The continued reliance on legal measures undermines our primary goal of nurturing future healthcare professionals.”

Research scholars presented their work on pre-clinical and para-clinical subjects. Ms. Meghlatha T.S. was awarded first place for her research on the efficacy of Withaferin-A and Propolis in DNA damage prevention. Mohit Suyal and Vijay Kumar secured second and third place, respectively.

Dr Sridhar Rao, founder of NMMTA, praised the association’s progress in medical education. He noted the importance of such conferences in fostering collaboration among educators and researchers. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr Ayan Das, who acknowledged the contributions of all participants and organisers. NMMTA plans to reconvene next year at a new location, continuing its mission to enhance medical education and research.