Preventive & Community Medicine
The Department of Preventive and Community Medicine is home to dedicated faculty and mentors who deliver a curriculum addressing two major aims for the new millennium’s physicians: prevention of disease in the general population, and research that is attuned to the needs of the people.
A principal goal of the department is to produce community-oriented physicians who are responsive to the needs of the country. Our graduates provide comprehensive primary health care to all members of the community, respecting the existing diversity among the people in it. With community participation, our students assess community health needs, implement disease prevention programs, develop community healthcare teams and advocate for health promotion and disease prevention strategies. The basic principle that our students learn is that the community is a partner in health development, which is a basic ingredient for human happiness, well being and productivity.
It is also in Preventive Medicine where the foundations of the students’ learning in research is set, with the introduction of research design and methodology. First year students are guided through preparation of a research proposal, which then undergoes complete review and ethical approval. In second year, the student-proponents conduct the study under the supervision and guidance of their faculty adviser/co-researcher.