National Doctor’s Day 2024: Why Is It Celebrated on 1st July in India

National Doctor’s Day, celebrated on July 1, honours the priceless contributions made by medical professionals. This day is a sobering reminder of the commitment, knowledge, and empathy that doctors demonstrate in their noble work of curing disease and easing suffering.

It is a moment for society to thank medical professionals for their unwavering dedication to helping those in need by giving them comfort, hope, and care. In addition to acknowledging the critical role that doctors play in preserving public health, National Doctors Day 2024 offers a chance for introspection on the difficulties that doctors encounter and the sacrifices they make in the service of humanity.

It is essential to acknowledge the profound impact that doctors have on individuals, families, and communities. Their knowledge, aptitude, and compassion serve as the cornerstone of the healthcare system, influencing the lives of countless people. This day provides a forum to celebrate doctors’ inventiveness and resiliency, especially when dealing with unprecedented health emergencies.

What is the History of National Doctor’s Day?

Doctors Day history is quite interesting. Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy’s birthday is celebrated as National Doctor’s Day. He served as West Bengal’s second chief minister and was a well-known doctor. His birthday is July 1st, 1882. He has played a significant role in the development of India’s healthcare system and medical education. For his services, he was also given the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian honour in India. The background and origin of Doctors Day is as follows.

• In India, National Doctor’s Day honours Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy’s birth and death dates as he was a birthday- perisher (he died on his birthday). 
• The purpose of the day is to appreciate and commemorate the achievements that medical professionals, including doctors, have made to society.
• July 1st is designated as a National Doctors Day date in India to honour Dr. B.C. Roy, a physician who was also a statesman, engaged in various social and political endeavours. Some of the achievements of Dr. B.C. Roy are:
• Dr. B.C. Roy was a renowned physician who played a crucial role in advancing medical education in India.
• Besides his medical achievements, Dr. Roy was a prominent political leader. He served as the second Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1948 until he died in 1962.
• Dr. Roy significantly contributed to the field of education. He was involved in the founding of the Indian Medical Association and the Medical Council of India, helping to shape the future of medical education and practice in the country.
• Dr. Roy’s contributions have been widely recognised, and in 1961, he was honoured with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.
• India observed its inaugural National Doctors Day in 1991.
• On this day, the public can express its thanks and gratitude for the doctors’ devoted work.

What is the Significance of National Doctor’s Day 2024?

In addition to honouring doctors, National Doctors Day 2024 will draw attention to the vital role that doctors play in our lives. This day honours the commitment, selflessness, and labour of those working in the medical field.

1) Appreciation for Doctors

On National Doctor’s Day, we have the chance to sincerely thank the medical professionals who dedicate their lives to ensuring our health. In order to give their patients the finest treatment possible, they frequently put in lengthy workdays, deal with difficult circumstances, and make personal sacrifices. We have the opportunity to express our appreciation for their steadfast dedication to saving lives on this day.

2) Highlighting Dedication

Doctors are the most committed professionals. National Doctor’s Day highlights their relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare. This day honours their dedication to providing patients with high-quality care and their ongoing efforts to stay current on medical developments. It calls attention to this dedication, which is often overlooked.

3) Supporting Healthcare

On National Doctors Day, we emphasise the value of having a strong healthcare system. By recognising doctors, we demonstrate the importance of funding medical education, research, and infrastructure. It serves as a reminder that society’s general well-being depends on doctors and the healthcare system.

What is the theme of National Doctor’s Day 2024?

The official theme for July 1 Doctors Day in India has yet to be revealed. However, themes for the last few years are as follows:

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) will reveal the selected theme closer to July 1st. Whatever the ultimate topic, National Doctor’s Day 2024 offers an excellent chance to:

• Inform the public about the difficulties faced by doctors and their roles in the medical community.
• Recognise and value the dedicated work that medical professionals do to advance public health and well-being.
• Make a strong case for better resources, infrastructure, and working conditions for medical professionals.
• Encourage understanding and sensitivity to the intricate realities that doctors deal with on a daily basis.

How to celebrate National Doctor’s Day?

National Doctors Day is observed in a variety of ways, all of which are intended to honour and recognise the contributions made by medical professionals. Here are some suggestions:

1) Organise Recognition Events

Doctors should be honoured by planning recognition ceremonies in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. Award ceremonies, speeches, and presentations showcasing their accomplishments and efforts are a few examples of these kinds of events. These occasions make medical practitioners feel proud and appreciative of one another.

2) Community Health Camps

It is possible to arrange community health camps that offer the general public free medical examinations and consultations. Physicians have the chance to give back to the community and spread awareness of prevalent health issues by participating in these camps. Additionally, it fosters confidence and fortifies the ties that bind medical professionals to the community.

3) Public Awareness Campaigns

Campaigns for public awareness can be started to inform people about the value of healthcare providers and doctors. Webinars, educational workshops, and social media campaigns are some examples of these campaigns. We can inspire more people to value and support the medical profession by raising awareness.

4) Special Discounts and Offers

Doctors may receive exclusive offers and discounts on wellness programs, medical supplies, and services as a thank-you. This shows them how much their efforts are valued and gives them a chance to take responsibility for their own health and well-being.

5) Community Engagement Activities

Incorporating community engagement initiatives like health lectures, seminars, and physical education courses can be a significant way to honour National Doctors Day. Participating in these events encourages community members to put their health first and leads to a healthy lifestyle.

6) Blood Donation Drives

One effective method of recognising doctors and helping save lives is to organise blood drives. Blood drives can provide a consistent supply of blood for people in need. Donating blood is a vital part of healthcare. It pays appropriate homage to medical professionals who sacrifice much to preserve lives.

7) Educational Activities in Schools

Educational initiatives in schools aim to inspire the next generation of doctors and increase public knowledge of the medical field. Science fairs, doctor-patient interaction sessions, and health-related projects are a few examples of activities. These programs may inspire students to become passionate about healthcare.

8) Gifting and Acknowledgements

Giving little presents, flowers, or handwritten thank-you cards to doctors can be a heartfelt gesture of gratitude. It can also aid in the dissemination of information about their contributions to acknowledge their efforts through social media shout-outs, newspaper articles, and radio mentions.

Takeaway

2024’s National Doctor’s Day is a unique opportunity to recognise and celebrate the vital roles that doctors play in society. It’s a day to honour their commitment, diligence, and selflessness in delivering high-quality healthcare. We recognise the value of a strong healthcare system and the indispensable role that doctors play in our lives by commemorating this day. Let’s unite to show our appreciation and support for the medical profession through public awareness campaigns, community engagement, and recognition events.

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References

• May 2023 IMA News – Indian Medical Association. (n.d.). Retrieved June 21, 2024, from https://www.ima-india.org/ima/pdfdata/News2023/may-2023-IMA-News.pdf 
• Mahotsav, A. (n.d.). Event Detail | Events & Activities | Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/event-detail.htm?52312