Bhubaneswar, July 2: Every successful treatment is built on years of dedication, continuous learning and countless unseen sacrifices made by doctors, said SOA Vice-President Saswati Das while addressing a National Doctors' Day celebration at the Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS) and SUM Hospital, Campus-I, on July 1.

Speaking as the chief guest, Das said patients often regard doctors as next to God for their selfless service. She stressed that every medical decision has a profound impact on patients and their families and urged doctors to treat every patient as they would their own family members. Appreciating the commitment of IMS and SUM Hospital doctors towards patient care, she expressed confidence that they would continue to uphold the institution's reputation for excellence.

Padma Shri Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra, Chief Advisor (Health Sciences), SOA, who attended as the guest of honour, expressed hope that IMS and SUM Hospital would soon find a place among the country's top ten hospitals.

Dean of IMS and SUM Hospital, Campus-I, Prof. (Dr.) Sanghamitra Mishra said National Doctors' Day is observed on July 1 to commemorate the birth and death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. She added that doctors of the hospital were felicitated in recognition of their dedicated service to society.

Additional Dean Prof. (Dr.) Ajay Kumar Jena, Medical Superintendent of Campus-I Prof. (Dr.) Pushparaj Samantasinghar and Medical Superintendent of Campus-II Prof. (Dr.) Rajesh Kumar Lenka also praised the dedication and tireless efforts of doctors in delivering quality healthcare.

As part of the celebrations, around 35 doctors and heads of departments, selected and nominated by medical students, were felicitated by the SOA Vice-President. A cultural programme presented by the doctors added colour to the event, which was attended by department heads, faculty members, senior doctors and hospital officials.