Tripura has reached a significant achievement in healthcare by surpassing the World Health Organization’s recommended dentist-to-population ratio, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announced on Thursday. The state has also outperformed the national average in the percentage of dentists employed by the government, underscoring Tripura’s growing healthcare framework.
Speaking at the 23rd Annual Dental Conference in Agartala, Dr. Saha revealed that Tripura now has one dentist for every 7,000 residents, exceeding the WHO’s standard of one dentist per 7,500 individuals. “I am pleased to share this achievement,” Dr. Saha remarked, also highlighting that 28% of the state’s dentists work in government service, a stark contrast to the national average of just 2%. He attributed this to Tripura’s emphasis on public healthcare and its ability to attract dental professionals into government roles.
Dr. Saha contrasted this success with trends in other states and metro areas, where many dentists prefer private practice, seeing it as a path to financial independence. “This disparity reflects the unique approach Tripura has taken, where public service is prioritized over private practice,” he stated.
A practicing maxillofacial surgeon before his political career, Dr. Saha encouraged medical professionals to lead by example in both their personal and professional lives. “It is essential for doctors to live by the same principles they advocate to their patients. For example, we promote good oral hygiene but must ensure that we follow those practices ourselves,” he stressed. Reflecting on his own experience, Dr. Saha recalled a professor who smoked during lectures while advising students about the dangers of smoking. “This sends a contradictory message and harms a doctor’s credibility,” he added.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the dental healthcare system, such as the establishment of a state Dental Council and the creation of a comprehensive database of dental surgeons and technicians throughout Tripura.
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