Courses Focusing on Digital Health is Required for Advancement, Pro-Chancellor, D. Y. Patil Medical College
In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, the Pro-Chancellor of D. Y. Patil Medical College, Dr Bhagyashree Patil shared several insights about the courses offered by the institute, aim and vision along with initiatives taken by the institute to ensure that students are equipped with skills relevant for their future. Read the excerpt here….
Q. What is your vision for Dr D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre over the next five years?
Dr Patil: The vision of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre is to create an ecosystem where medical education, research and patient care seamlessly converge. Over the years, this vision has evolved into a centre of excellence, where academic brilliance and clinical expertise complement each other.
Over the next five years, we aim to incorporate artificial intelligence, and achieve precision in medicine and health data analytics into the academic framework, ensuring students are not only skilled in clinical practice but also adept at understanding how technology and innovation will shape healthcare delivery.
We also aim to significantly amplify our research output, with a focus on high-impact studies that address both global health challenges and India’s specific healthcare needs. Our students and faculty will be encouraged to lead projects that bridge science, technology and community health - ensuring that every research outcome serves a larger purpose.
At the core of this vision lies a deep commitment to community health, reaching underserved populations through mobile clinics, telemedicine and proactive health education. We believe the true success of an institution lies not just in producing top doctors but in improving health outcomes for society at large.
Q. What initiatives are in place to ensure that students are equipped with skills relevant to the current job market?
Dr Patil: The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, and clinical knowledge alone is no longer sufficient. At Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research centre, we have embedded experiential learning into every stage of our students' academic journey - from immersive skill labs to real-time exposure in our hospital wards.
Our advanced simulation labs allow students to practice complex procedures, handle emergency scenarios and refine decision-making in a controlled, high-fidelity environment. This ensures they graduate with the confidence to apply their knowledge from day one.
Our institution also integrates Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Competency based medical education to produce competent health professionals as per global standard.
Additionally, Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs, expert-led workshops and global collaborations ensure our students stay aligned with global best practices and the latest advancements in medical science.
We also nurture soft skills, leadership capabilities and an innovation mindset, ensuring our graduates excel not only as clinicians but also as researchers, health innovators and policy influencers.
Q. What steps are being taken to improve the quality of education and research at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre?
Dr Patil: At our institution, we are committed to fostering a culture of inquiry, where students are encouraged to ask difficult questions, challenge existing knowledge, and propose innovative solutions. This transformative approach shifts students from passive learners to active contributors in their fields. By integrating critical thinking and problem-solving into the curriculum, we ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills necessary to navigate and lead in the ever-evolving world of medicine.
Academic excellence and research innovation go hand in hand. To enhance both, we are actively investing in cutting-edge research infrastructure and encouraging faculty and students to pursue impact-driven projects that address pressing health issues. Our institution has established global collaborations with leading universities and research organizations, providing access to international expertise, collaborative research opportunities, and joint publications. Regular research conclaves, innovation challenges, and interdisciplinary projects further nurture this spirit of discovery—ensuring our students graduate as both doctors and innovators.
Q. Are there any new academic programs or courses being introduced in the upcoming session?
Dr Patil: Medical education must constantly evolve to stay ahead of emerging healthcare trends. In the upcoming academic session, we are looking at introducing interdisciplinary programs that combine medicine with technology, public health and global healthcare policy.
Our institute now offers a range of new courses designed to meet the evolving healthcare needs. These include Geriatric Medicine, Family Medicine, Immunology, Hematology & Transfusion Medicine, as well as Surgical Gastroenterology.
Courses that focus on digital health, AI in diagnostics, personalized medicine and global health leadership are currently being conceptualized, ensuring our students are prepared not just for clinical excellence, but also for leadership roles in healthcare transformation.
Q. How does the medical college foster a culture of innovation and creativity among students?
Dr Patil: Innovation begins with curiosity—the drive to question norms and seek better solutions. At Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, we cultivate this mindset by encouraging students to think beyond textbooks and apply their knowledge to real-world healthcare challenges.
Our faculty embraces innovative teaching methodologies that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Self-made models simplify complex concepts, capture students' interest and encourage interactive discussions. Role-playing, involving UG students, PG residents and interns, brings critical concepts to life, making learning more immersive and impactful.
Creativity flourishes when diverse minds collaborate and that is the culture we foster—one where scientific inquiry and creative thinking go hand in hand. Engaging activities such as quizzes, debates and panel discussions are integral to our educational culture, promoting active participation, sharpening analytical thinking and building confidence among our students. All these combined learning experiences empower students to become skilled, thoughtful and well-rounded medical professionals.
Q. What extracurricular activities are being offered at the Medical College?
Dr Patil: At Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, we strongly believe that a well-rounded medical professional needs more than just academic and clinical proficiency. Our students are actively encouraged to explore their creative, cultural and leadership potential.
College Katta is one such initiative - a student-led platform where informal conversations with faculty, alumni and industry experts foster open dialogue and knowledge-sharing beyond the classroom.
DPU DIVE, our monthly newsletter, highlights academic milestones, research breakthroughs, student achievements and faculty insights, helping students see the broader impact of their work.
And then there’s SYNAPSE, our flagship intercollege festival, which blends art, culture, knowledge and competition, allowing students to showcase their creative and organizational talents alongside their academic excellence.
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To calculate the CGPA at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital, and Research Centre, students use the following method:
Hence, to calculate their CGPA at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital, and Research Centre, students need to determine the grade points earned in all their courses and then calculate the weighted average of these points.