Ahmedabad: Family physicians, once a familiar presence in neighbourhoods across the city, are becoming increasingly rare, doctors said on World Family Doctor Day on May 19. These MBBS-qualified general practitioners were traditionally known not only for prescribing medicines but also for advising patients on diet, lifestyle and overall well-being, while maintaining close ties with families over generations.
Decline of a Dying Breed
“Today, we are a dying breed,” said Dr R I Patel, president of the Ahmedabad Family Physicians Association. “The last MBBS doctor we saw in our area was about a decade ago. This is the situation everywhere. The decline can be attributed to several factors, including the rise in postgraduate medical seats, opportunities in government services, and alternative career paths such as hospital management or employment with large hospitals,” he added.
Role of Family Physicians in Primary Healthcare
Dr Pragnesh Vachcharajani, general secretary of the Federation of Family Physicians’ Associations of India (FFPAI), said family physicians continue to play a key role in primary healthcare and work alongside specialists in patient treatment. Despite the decline, their contribution remains vital in the healthcare ecosystem.
New Logo for Quality Care
To mark the occasion, family physicians in Ahmedabad launched a new logo aimed at assuring patients of quality care and giving allopathy practitioners a distinct identity, Dr Vachcharajani said. The initiative seeks to reinforce trust and recognition for family doctors in the community.
The trend reflects broader changes in the medical profession, with younger doctors opting for specialisation or institutional roles over independent practice. However, experts emphasise the irreplaceable value of family physicians in providing holistic, continuous care.
