Vision, Mission, Goals, and Objectives of the Academy of Family Physicians of India
Vision
Transforming India’s health care delivery system through community-based, high-quality, comprehensive primary care.
Mission
To promote the discipline of family medicine and its integration into the health care delivery system to improve the health status of communities by fostering an environment of change and reform. Advocacy and health policy development.
● Quality medical and healthcare professional education
● Development of practice standards and guidelines
● Setting accreditation process Quality,
● Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
● Promoting primary care research
● Contribution to public health
● Community health engagement.
Objectives
● Capacity Building: Efforts to build the capacity of family physicians through training, mentorship, and professional development.
● Training and Certification: Offer certification programs for family medicine practitioners. Provide training workshops and courses to enhance clinical skills and knowledge.
● Conferences and Workshops: Organise national and regional conferences to discuss advancements and challenges in family medicine. Conduct workshops on various aspects of primary care and public health.
● Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Encourage and support family medicine and primary care research. Promote the use of evidence-based practices in clinical settings.
● Publications and Resources: Publish journals, newsletters, and research papers to disseminate knowledge and updates in family medicine. Provide resources and tools to support family physician practice.
● Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns: Conduct campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of family medicine. Advocate for better working conditions and support for family physicians.
● Collaborations and Partnerships: Collaborate with international and national organizations to promote family medicine.
Key Focus Area
● Universal Health Coverage: High-quality, comprehensive primary care integration with Universal Health Coverage in India
● Mandatory Department of Family Medicine: Introduction of mandatory family medicine departments and discipline in the MBBS program at all medical education institutions in India.
● Starting Family Medicine UG and PG programs: Promote residency-based full-time family medicine postgraduate programs at all National Medical Commission (NMC)-recognized medical colleges, NBEMS-accredited institutions, university-based medical college hospitals, and associated community-level health facilities.
● Academics at community-based health facilities: Academic institutionalization of community-based health services in India.
● Curriculum development: Develop high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate family medicine curricula.
● Accreditation: Accreditation system for family practice and healthcare facilities
The Academy of Family Physicians of India: A Pillar of Primary Care
The Academy of Family Physicians of India (AFPI) is a national organization committed to promoting and strengthening the practice of family medicine in India. Founded with the vision of improving primary healthcare across the country, AFPI represents family physicians and general practitioners, advocating for the critical role they play in delivering patient-centered, comprehensive, and community-oriented care.
The Academy of Family Physicians of India (AFPI) stands as a cornerstone in the landscape of healthcare in India, dedicated to advancing the practice of family medicine. Founded with the mission to enhance the quality and accessibility of primary care, AFPI plays a vital role in shaping healthcare policies, promoting education, and supporting family physicians in their critical roles as healthcare providers.
The Academy of Family Physicians of India is more than just a professional organisation; it is a driving force behind the enhancement of primary healthcare in the country. Through its commitment to education, advocacy, quality standards, and research, AFPI empowers family physicians to provide high-quality care that meets the diverse needs of patients. As India continues to navigate the complexities of its healthcare landscape, the role of AFPI in shaping the future of family medicine remains crucial, ensuring that family physicians are equipped to lead the way in delivering effective, compassionate, and accessible healthcare for all.
Historical Context and Evolution
Family medicine in India has evolved significantly over the past few decades, reflecting the changing healthcare needs of the population. Recognizing the importance of primary care, the AFPI was established to champion the principles of family medicine—comprehensive, continuous, and patient-centred care. The organisation has been instrumental in advocating for family physicians as essential contributors to the healthcare system, ensuring that they are adequately trained, recognized, and supported in their practices.
Objectives and Core Functions
AFPI is guided by several key objectives aimed at enhancing the quality of primary healthcare. One of its primary functions is to advocate for the integration of family medicine into the broader healthcare framework. This includes influencing policy decisions that prioritise primary care, as well as raising awareness about the importance of family physicians in addressing public health challenges.
Education and training are at the heart of AFPI’s mission. The organisation provides continuing medical education (CME) opportunities, workshops, and conferences that allow family physicians to stay updated on the latest advancements in healthcare practices. Programs such as the Fellowship in Family Medicine (FFM) equip healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care in their communities. Quality Standards and Accreditation
A hallmark of AFPI’s commitment to excellence is its Clinic Accreditation Program, which establishes rigorous quality standards for family medicine practices. This program encourages clinics to adhere to best practices, ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate care. By recognizing accredited clinics, AFPI fosters a culture of quality and accountability in primary healthcare delivery, which ultimately leads to improved patient outcomes.
Networking and Collaboration
Collaboration is another cornerstone of AFPI’s activities. The organisation facilitates networking among family physicians, healthcare institutions, academic organisations, and policymakers. By fostering relationships within the healthcare community, AFPI creates a platform for shared learning, professional growth, and the dissemination of best practices. This collaborative approach is essential for tackling complex healthcare challenges and promoting a cohesive primary care system.