All India Institute of Medical Sciences

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) is a group of autonomous public medical colleges of higher education in India. These institutes have been declared by an Act of Parliament as Institute of National Importance. AIIMS New Delhi, the fore-runner parent excellence institution, was established in 1956.

History

The concept of AIIMS was introduced by the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, who sought to establish a medical institution that would serve as a nucleus for nurturing excellence in all aspects of health care. The foundation of AIIMS New Delhi was laid in 1952, and it started operating in 1956. Over the years, several AIIMS have been established across the country to replicate the model of AIIMS New Delhi and to reduce the regional disparities in quality tertiary level healthcare in the country and attaining self-sufficiency in graduate and postgraduate medical education and training.

Objectives

The primary objectives of AIIMS are to develop patterns of teaching in undergraduate and postgraduate medical education in all its branches so as to demonstrate a high standard of medical education to all medical colleges and other allied institutions in India. It aims to bring together in one place educational facilities of the highest order for the training of personnel in all important branches of health activity and to attain self-sufficiency in postgraduate medical education. The institutions are responsible for providing high standard and quality healthcare and are centers for research on medical techniques and technologies.

Institutes

As of now, there are several AIIMS located across India. These include:

• AIIMS New Delhi
• AIIMS Bhopal
• AIIMS Bhubaneswar
• AIIMS Jodhpur
• AIIMS Patna
• AIIMS Raipur
• AIIMS Rishikesh

Each of these institutes operates autonomously under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and strives to achieve the objectives set forth by the original AIIMS in New Delhi.

Admission

Admission to the undergraduate and postgraduate courses in AIIMS is highly competitive and is based on a national level entrance examination known as the AIIMS MBBS exam for undergraduate courses and the AIIMS PG exam for postgraduate courses.

Facilities

Each AIIMS is equipped with a hospital that provides treatment to millions of patients. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technologies and offer treatment in various specialties. The institutes also have residential complexes for faculty and students, libraries, and sports facilities.

Research

AIIMS are involved in a broad spectrum of research activities in medical and related fields. AIIMS New Delhi, in particular, is known for its pioneering research in various domains of health care, including basic science research, clinical and translational research, and public health research.

Challenges

Despite their success, AIIMS face several challenges, including the need for more infrastructure development, faculty recruitment, and research funding. Additionally, the high patient load puts a strain on the existing facilities and staff.

Conclusion

The All India Institutes of Medical Sciences are a beacon of excellence in medical education, research, and patient care in India. They play a crucial role in shaping the future of medical education and healthcare services in the country. As they continue to expand and evolve, their contribution to the health sector in India and the world remains invaluable.