GMC Baramulla pushes integrated cleft care model, trains ASHA workers

Baramulla, Jun 12: The Department of Dentistry, Government Medical College Baramulla organised a one-day CME/CDE on ‘Comprehensive Cleft Care’ on Wednesday.

The programme emphasised a holistic approach to the management of cleft lip and palate patients, with a focus on enhancing awareness and promoting early intervention strategies across the district.

The event was graced by the Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Dr Syeed Fakhruddin Hamid, as Chief Guest. While Prof Dr Sandeep Kaur, Principal and Dean, Government Dental College Srinagar, attended the programme as Guest of Honour. The event was aimed to enhance cleft awareness among the masses of Baramulla.

ASHA workers and coordinators from all blocks were trained on early identification, feeding techniques, door-to-door surveys, psychosocial support and timely referrals for comprehensive management at GMC Baramulla.

The Deputy Commissioner appreciated the initiative and urged for conducting screening camps in peripheral areas to ensure early detection and treatment. The other dignitaries who attended the event include Principal Prof. Dr. Majid Jehangir, GMC Baramulla, who served as Patron, along with Medical Superintendent Dr Parvaiz Masoodi as Co-Patron, and Prof. Dr. Shafkat Ahmed Lone, Head of ENT and Registrar Academics also Co-Patron, Prof. Dr. H U Malik, President Indian Dental Association, and Dr. Omer Hussain Misger, Head of Department of Dentistry. Prof Dr Sandeep Kaur congratulated the organisers for introducing comprehensive cleft care services at GMC Baramulla. Prof Dr Majid Jehangir expressed gratitude to the Department of Dentistry for successfully conducting the CME. The programme witnessed participation of over 250 delegates including HODs from GDC Srinagar, SKIMS Bemina, GMC Anantnag, GMC Doda and GMC Baramulla, along with doctors from peripheral health centres, ANMs, midwives ASHA workers.