Inauguration of Believers Swallowing Centre on World Swallowing Day

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) and the Department of ENT at Believers Church Medical College Hospital (BCMCH) marked World Swallowing Day with the grand inauguration of the Believers Swallowing Centre (BSC). This significant milestone underscores the hospital’s dedication to addressing swallowing disorders (dysphagia) and enhancing patient care through specialized diagnosis and treatment.

A Vision for Specialized Swallowing Care

Presidential Address – The Importance of Dysphagia Management

In his Presidential Address, Dr. John Valliattu emphasized the critical need to address swallowing disorders, which often go undiagnosed and untreated, impacting nutrition, communication, and quality of life. He highlighted how the newly established Believers Swallowing Centre would play a pivotal role in delivering advanced and specialized care to patients suffering from dysphagia.

Inaugural Address – Innovation & Excellence in Patient Care

Dr. George Chandy Matteethra, in his Inaugural Address, reaffirmed the hospital’s vision for medical excellence and its commitment to pioneering innovative healthcare solutions. He emphasized that early diagnosis, multidisciplinary intervention, and patient-centered care are essential for improving outcomes in swallowing disorders.

Chief Guest’s Address – The Power of Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Dr. Joe Jacob K introduced the Chief Guest, Dr. Pratapan Nair, Chief Medical Administrator of Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. Dr. Nair commended BCMCH’s initiative, stressing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing swallowing disorders. He highlighted how a team-based approach involving ENT specialists, speech therapists, physiatrists, and gastroenterologists is crucial for comprehensive dysphagia care.

Scientific Insights – Understanding Dysphagia & Its Impact

A key highlight of the event was the scientific presentation titled “Understanding Dysphagia and Its Impact”, delivered by Dr. Arya C. J., Chief Deglutologist from Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. She provided in-depth insights into the challenges of dysphagia, its effects on nutrition and respiratory health, and the latest advancements in diagnosis and treatment.

Recognition & Official Launch

During the Felicitation Ceremony, Dr. Thomas Mathew lauded the PMR and ENT departments for their dedication and effort in establishing the Believers Swallowing Centre.

The event concluded with:

• A Vote of Thanks by Mr. Aromal Prasad, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty, and organizers.
• A Dedication Prayer, seeking divine blessings for the center’s success.
• The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in the ENT Department, officially launching the Believers Swallowing Centre.

The Future of the Believers Swallowing Centre

The Believers Swallowing Centre (BSC) is set to become a center of excellence for the advanced diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders. With a multidisciplinary approach integrating ENT, PMR, gastroenterology, and speech therapy, the center aims to:

✅ Enhance early diagnosis through advanced imaging and assessment tools.
✅ Provide holistic treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
✅ Improve patient outcomes through rehabilitation, therapy, and innovative interventions.
✅ Raise awareness about dysphagia and its impact on health and well-being.

This inauguration marks a new chapter in specialized care, reinforcing BCMCH’s commitment to transforming healthcare and improving the lives of patients with swallowing disorders.