Why is July 1 Celebrated in India as National Doctor's Day?

With the world still reeling from the effects of the global pandemic, it is easy to see how doctors have played a pivotal role in safeguarding our health. They have been instrumental in serving the community by providing the necessary treatment. Combating lack of infrastructure, reduced availability of beds, and other essential medical resources, doctors have played the role of front-line heroes. As per WHO statistics, we have lost about 1,15,000 health workers globally due to COVID-19. National Doctor’s Day serves to remind us of their importance and contribution. It also draws our eye to the sacrifices that doctors make for our wellbeing. Doctor day is celebrated worldwide. Different countries celebrate Doctor’s Day on different days, while India celebrates it on July 1 every year. 

Celebrating National Doctor’s Day in India is a great way to show gratitude and respect to doctors. Read on to know how you can recognize the dedication and commitment of doctors on this day.

National Doctor’s Day Commemorates Dr. Bidhan’s Achievements

Born in the year 1882, in Patna, he graduated from the University of Calcutta. Following this, he went to England to continue studying medicine. After post-graduation, he became a Member of the Royal College of Physicians in 1911. Later, he went on to become a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons. Awarded the Bharat Ratna award in 1961, he was the first medical consultant for the British Medical Journal. His contributions have set a benchmark in the medical community.

Doctor’s Day 2021 Theme and Significance

It is no wonder that Doctor Day has gained more importance in the current COVID-19 scenario. The selfless efforts of doctors across India have been hard to miss. Each year, Doctor’s Day has a special theme. While the theme for 2021 has not been announced yet, this year's theme was ‘Lessen the mortality of COVID-19.’ The year 2019 focused on the theme ‘Zero tolerance to violence against doctors.’ 

How we observe Doctor’s Day in India 

On National Doctor's Day, health centers organize medical check-up and health screening camps. They provide free blood and sugar tests, EEGs, and ECGs, to name a few. On doctor day, underserved communities across the nation are also educated about the importance of health and the prevention of diseases. On this day, many discussion forums and conferences take place for health awareness and counseling people. [5,6]

What you can do this National Doctor’s Day

National Doctor’s Day is the right time to honor the medical fraternity for their tireless efforts and dedication. Show your gratitude by presenting a bouquet of carnation flowers to your doctor, as the red carnation flower is symbolic of the medical profession. It represents love, courage, charity, and sacrifice. You may also give your doctor a greeting card or send a personal message of thanks over the phone, wishing them happy National Doctor’s Day. Such small gestures will denote your appreciation and are sure to make a lasting impact. 

Whether it is a common cold or a deadly disease, we need doctors. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to address our health and live full lives. Doctor’s Day is a day to acknowledge healthcare professionals for their relentless support and selfless service.  This helps prevent the spread of diseases and lowers the burden on doctors. Now, you can book a doctor consultation or online lab test booking with ease by using the Bajaj Finserv Health platform.