Bhubaneswar, Oct 10: AIIMS Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), successfully hosted the 2nd National Conclave on Travel Health Clinics (THCs), marking a significant step toward integrating travel health into India’s public health framework.

The two-day conclave convened experts and representatives from 16 AIIMS institutions, State Medical Colleges, and key ministries including Health & Family Welfare, External Affairs, and Defence. The event focused on establishing THCs across the country to provide in-travel medical support and preventive care, especially for travelers facing health emergencies or infectious disease risks.

Dr. Ashutosh Biswas, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, emphasized the need for a hub-and-spoke model with AIIMS Bhubaneswar serving as the central hub for training, guidance, and operational support. Dr. S. Senthilnathan highlighted the feasibility of deploying trained staff to manage basic health issues during travel, even in the absence of onboard doctors. Dr. Vikas Bhatia advocated for structured training programs in travel medicine, vaccination, and emergency care to build national capacity.

The conclave featured expert sessions, panel discussions, and live demonstrations, reinforcing the urgency of policy-aligned and research-backed strategies to enhance travel health services. With AIIMS Bhubaneswar at the helm, the initiative aims to create a nationwide network of THCs within medical institutions, ensuring safer journeys for all.