SLBS Government Medical College, Mandi Organises Half-Day Workshop on HIV/AIDS Prevention and the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017.
Shimla:
In a significant initiative aimed at strengthening awareness, promoting non-discriminatory healthcare practices, and enhancing legal understanding among healthcare professionals, the Department of Microbiology, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Government Medical College & Hospital (SLBSGMC&H), Mandi, successfully organised a half-day workshop and sensitization session on “HIV/AIDS Prevention and the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017” on Saturday.
The workshop brought together medical professionals, faculty members, resident doctors, nursing staff, students, and health officials to discuss scientific advances in HIV prevention, infection control practices, and the legal rights of people living with HIV under the provisions of the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017.
The programme was formally inaugurated by the Principal of SLBSGMC&H, Prof. (Dr.) Rajesh Kumar, who highlighted the crucial role of healthcare institutions in eliminating stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS. In his inaugural address, he emphasized that awareness, empathy, ethical medical practice, and legal compliance are essential for ensuring quality healthcare services for all patients, irrespective of their HIV status.
During the workshop, experts from the Department of Microbiology delivered comprehensive sessions on scientific approaches to HIV/AIDS prevention, modes of transmission, standard infection prevention protocols, and evidence-based strategies to reduce the risk of occupational exposure among healthcare workers.
A major focus of the programme was the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, which safeguards the rights and dignity of people living with HIV. The speakers elaborated on key provisions of the Act, including protection against discrimination, confidentiality of HIV-related information, the patient’s right to privacy, informed consent, and the legal responsibilities of healthcare providers. Participants were also sensitized to the ethical obligations involved in treating HIV-positive individuals without prejudice or discrimination.
The workshop further covered infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols, safe handling of biological specimens, universal precautions, and the importance of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in cases of accidental occupational exposure to HIV. Healthcare workers were briefed on the immediate steps to be taken following needle-stick injuries and other exposure incidents to minimize the risk of infection.
One of the key objectives of the programme was to promote a healthcare environment that is safe, inclusive, and free from stigma. Faculty members stressed that medical professionals have both a legal and moral responsibility to provide equitable treatment while maintaining patient confidentiality and respecting human rights.
The interactive nature of the workshop encouraged active participation from attendees representing various departments of the hospital. The programme concluded with an engaging Question-and-Answer (Q&A) session, during which participants sought clarifications on legal provisions, infection control practices, and practical challenges encountered in clinical settings.
The event reflected the institution’s continued commitment to improving healthcare standards through education, awareness, and professional capacity building while fostering a discrimination-free environment for patients living with HIV.
Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Joint Director, SLBSGMC&H, Sanjeev Sharma; Senior Medical Superintendent, Dr. R.R. Negi; Chief Medical Officer, Mandi, Dr. Dinesh Thakur; District AIDS Programme Officer, Dr. Arindam; the Head of the Department of Microbiology; along with faculty members, healthcare professionals, resident doctors, and staff from various departments.
The successful organisation of the workshop underscores SLBS Government Medical College & Hospital, Mandi’s dedication to promoting public health awareness, strengthening legal literacy among healthcare workers, and ensuring compassionate, ethical, and patient-centred healthcare services in accordance with national legislation.
