Kurnool Medical College to get research unit

Kurnool: A Multidisciplinary Research Unit is being planned to be set up in Kurnool Medical College (KMC) at a cost of Rs 5 crores. The proposal has been sent and KMC is awaiting sanction from the Central government and ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research).

The multidisciplinary research unit will house work stimulation stations and modules. “ICMR wants medical colleges to be actively involved in research and update knowledge in multiple departments.

Currently as per MCI norms, it is mandatory to publish research papers to obtain promotion for medical teachers,” said Dr. G.S. Ramaprasad, KMC principal.

To obtain assistant professorship, one must publish at least one research publication, for associate professorship and professorship it is at least two research papers besides the regular guidance medical teachers give for thesis.

“We have published 45 to 50 research papers in 2013, this is a good stimulus, and my priority is to upgrade the super speciality cardiology department and str-engthen the surgical department,” said Dr Ramaprasad.

He also said that the government is being proactive and appreciated the efficiency of oncology, gastroenterology, urology and nephrology department of KMC. Dr Ramaprasad said that they have to improve the transplantation department which is another priority he has.

Referring to the Rayalaseema's endemic health problems, he said, "Some health problems endemic to the Rayalaseema owing to low per capita income, early marriages, poor education, low birth weight, increase in under-five year mortality, infant mortality and maternal mortality." He said it is crucial to contain these ailments for India to reach the millennium development goals.