Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Feb 26: In a significant step towards strengthening rural healthcare services, the Dental Outpatient Department (OPD) and Specialty Outpatient Departments were inaugurated at the Father Muller Medical College Salvadore Monteiro Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC), Bajpe, on Thursday.
The programme was organized by the department of community medicine and the department of dentistry under Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI).
The newly established departments were blessed by Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director of FMCI, who also led the prayer service. A welcome address was delivered by Fr Dr Michael L Santhumayor. The facilities were formally inaugurated by local donor Salvadore Monteiro by cutting the ribbon, marking the commencement of expanded healthcare services for the rural population of Bajpe and surrounding areas.
Delivering his message, Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo emphasized that the extension of dental and specialty services at Bajpe was aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of rural communities who often find it difficult to travel to the main hospital at Kankanady for every consultation or treatment, ensuring that quality and specialized medical services reach the grassroots level.
He noted that while essential and primary treatments would be provided at the Rural Health Training Centre, patients requiring advanced medical intervention would be referred to Kankanady, where comprehensive facilities are available. “Our doors are always open for care. Our motto is ‘Heal and Comfort’. We do not only aim to treat illnesses but also to ensure that patients feel supported and cared for,” he said.
He further expressed gratitude to donor Salvadore Monteiro for enabling the establishment of the centre and acknowledged the dedication of doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, and support staff who serve in comparatively challenging rural conditions. He appreciated their commitment and sacrifice in extending healthcare services to the underserved population.
Among those present on the occasion were Fr Dr Michael L Santhumayor, administrator, FMCI; Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, dean, Father Muller Medical College; Dr Sudhir Prabhu, head of the department of community medicine; Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, administrator, Father Muller Medical College Hospital; Dr Charishma, principal of the physiotherapy department; Dr Nandita, head of the dental department; Dr Rachana K Nair, assistant professor and RHTC in-charge; Dr Madhu Malar; and other faculty members and staff.