AIIMS Mangalagiri opens Department of AYUSH to strengthen traditional medicine

Guntur: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Mangalagiri on Wednesday inaugurated its Department of AYUSH, marking a significant step towards integrating traditional Indian systems of medicine with modern healthcare practices.

The department was formally inaugurated by AIIMS Mangalagiri Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Prof. Dr. Ahanthem Santa Singh in the presence of Dean Prof. Dr. Desu Rama Mohan, Medical Superintendent Dr. Rajasekhar Mohan, Deputy Director (Administration) Col. Sashikanth Thumma and Medical Officer (Ayurveda) Dr. Pushpanjali Akula.

The newly inaugurated AYUSH block will house services related to Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy. AIIMS Mangalagiri said the facility has been established to strengthen integrative healthcare by creating greater synergy between traditional systems of medicine and modern clinical practices, reports The Times of India.

Addressing the gathering, Medical Officer (Ayurveda) Dr. Pushpanjali Akula said Ayurveda pharmacy and Panchakarma units are expected to commence operations soon. She noted that the new services will expand treatment options available to patients and facilitate access to established Ayurvedic therapies within the institute.

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Speaking to TOI, AIIMS Mangalagiri Executive Director and CEO Prof. Dr. Ahanthem Santa Singh said the institute is working towards the gradual expansion of its AYUSH wing. As part of these efforts, Yoga and Siddha services are proposed to be introduced in the coming months. He added that the appointment of two additional medical officers is also underway, which will further strengthen the department's service delivery and patient care capabilities.

The institute is additionally exploring the establishment of a sports medicine centre to support athletes and individuals engaged in competitive and recreational sports across Andhra Pradesh. According to Prof. Singh, the growing interest in sports and physical fitness has increased the demand for specialised medical care, rehabilitation and performance-related healthcare services.

Plans are also being considered for a dedicated geriatric medicine department to address the healthcare needs of the elderly population. Officials said the proposed facilities, along with the existing Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), are expected to enhance the institute's ability to provide multidisciplinary and patient-centric healthcare services to people from Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring regions.

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