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India Launches AI Training for 50,000 Doctors to Revolutionize Healthcare

The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences has launched an online AI training programme targeting 50,000 doctors to build digital competencies. Union Minister Anupriya Patel stated the initiative is crucial for addressing India's disease burden and moving towards preventive healthcare. The programme emphasizes that AI should augment, not replace, doctors, and must be guided by ethics and accountability. Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava and NBEMS President Dr. Abhijat Sheth highlighted its role in modernizing medical education and advancing India's digital health vision.

Key Points: Govt Launches AI Course for Doctors to Boost Healthcare Delivery

  • Trains 50k doctors in AI applications
  • Aims to shift healthcare to proactive model
  • Over 42,000 doctors already registered
  • Focus on ethical and accountable AI use
2 min read

Govt launches new online AI course to train doctors, boost healthcare delivery

New online AI training programme for 50,000 Indian doctors aims to enhance diagnostics, decision-making, and bridge healthcare gaps.

Govt launches new online AI course to train doctors, boost healthcare delivery
"The use of AI in healthcare is no longer an option but a necessity. - Anupriya Patel"

New Delhi, Jan 21

The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, on Wednesday, launched an online training programme on Artificial Intelligence in medical education.

The programme aims to provide about 50,000 doctors with a foundational understanding of AI and its practical applications in clinical practice, diagnostics, clinical decision-making, research, and medical education.

The initiative will enhance digital competencies among medical professionals and enable them to effectively integrate AI-based tools into healthcare delivery and academic practice.

"The initiative is both timely and forward-looking," said Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, during the launch of the programme.

"In a country grappling with a significant burden of non-communicable diseases and the continuing challenge of tuberculosis, such programmes can support a shift from reactive to more proactive and preventive approaches to healthcare delivery," she added.

Notably, the initiative has gathered an enthusiastic response, and more than 42,000 doctors have already registered for the programme, said Patel.

"The use of AI in healthcare is no longer an option but a necessity," the MoS said, stressing that the advanced technology "is not intended to replace doctors, but to augment their capabilities, help bridge gaps arising from shortages of medical professionals and address the growing burden of patients".

She underscored that the adoption of AI must be guided by the principles of accountability, accessibility, and ethical use, ensuring that technological advancements strengthen healthcare delivery while safeguarding patient interests.

"The launch of the online training initiative on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare is a significant step towards strengthening medical education and building the capacity of doctors across the country," added Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary.

She also emphasised that such initiatives are crucial for promoting responsible adoption of emerging technologies, improving healthcare delivery, and advancing India's vision of digital health.

Dr. Abhijat Sheth, President, National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), stated that the programme reflects NBEMS' commitment to modernising medical education and strengthening capacity building among doctors.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Good step, but the implementation is key. Will government hospitals in smaller towns get the necessary infrastructure and hardware to actually use these AI tools? Training is one thing, application is another.
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Ananya R
As a doctor's daughter, I've seen the burnout firsthand. If AI can help reduce their workload and prevent errors, it's a blessing. More power to our healthcare warriors! 💪
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Michael C
Respectfully, while the intent is good, I hope the ethical guidelines are robust. Patient data privacy in India is a major concern. We must ensure AI augments care without compromising trust.
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Karthik V
Wow, 42,000 doctors already registered! Shows the hunger for upskilling. This proactive approach for NCDs and TB is exactly what we need. Jai Hind!
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Sarah B
This is forward-thinking. Bridging the gap between medical professionals and tech is crucial globally. Hope the course content is world-class and accessible to all doctors, not just those in metro cities.

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