New metabolic clinic at PGI Chandigarh to provide integrated care for liver patients
PTC Web Desk: In a significant development aimed at enhancing patient care, the Department of Hepatology at PGIMER, Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Department of Endocrinology and Dietetics, has inaugurated a new service 'Metabolic Clinic.'
This clinic, located within the Liver Clinic at the New OPD complex, will offer integrated, one-stop care for patients with chronic liver disease, particularly those with metabolic risk factors such as overweight/obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
The inauguration of Metabolic Clinic on Monday was marked by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Director of PGI, Chandigarh, Prof Vivek Lal, Medical Superintendent Prof Vipin Koushal, Prof Ashok Kumar, Additional Medical Superintendent Prof Ajay Duseja, Head of Hepatology, Prof Sanjay Bhadada, Head of Endocrinology, faculty members from various departments, nursing staff, and other institute members.
Explaining the rationale behind the new clinic, Dr Ajay Duseja highlighted the metabolic changes that occur in patients with chronic liver disease, often leading to conditions such as diabetes mellitus and metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Many patients undergoing liver transplantation also face post-transplant metabolic challenges.
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'Metabolic Clinic' aims to bridge the gap between liver care and management of these metabolic risk factors by providing consultations with endocrinologists and dietitians on the same day within the Liver Clinic itself.
Director Prof Vivek Lal emphasised the importance of integrated clinics like 'Metabolic Clinic,' commending the Department of Hepatology for this initiative. He drew attention to the success of a similar initiative, the Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Counselling Clinic, which has shown positive outcomes in addressing alcohol-related liver disease and associated health issues.
Dr Sanjay Bhadada, Head of Endocrinology, stressed the significance of point-of-care services within the Liver Clinic, noting that initially, the 'Metabolic Clinic' will operate once a week on Mondays, with the possibility of expanding to both Monday and Friday clinics.
The launch of the 'Metabolic Clinic' on World Liver Day holds special significance, as this day is observed globally on April 19th to raise awareness about liver diseases. Chronic liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcohol-associated liver disease, and chronic viral hepatitis, pose significant health risks if left untreated. Early detection and management are crucial in preventing complications and progression to end-stage liver disease and liver cancer.
The 'Metabolic Clinic' at PGIMER, Chandigarh, represents a step forward in providing comprehensive care for patients with chronic liver disease. With a focus on prevention, control, and integrated treatment, this clinic is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by liver conditions.
- PTC NEWS
