Indian Radiologists Discuss the Future of Medical Imaging in Shillong

The Meghalaya State Branch of the Indian Radiological and Imaging Association (IRIA) held its first state-level conference in Shillong to address the latest developments and academic advancements in the field of medical imaging. This significant event, held at Vivanta Shillong, was realized in collaboration with United Imaging-Medikabazaar. Attended by approximately 80 radiologists, resident doctors, and healthcare professionals, the program featured intensive academic sessions. Participants had the opportunity to acquire the most up-to-date knowledge in the sector through presentations by invited speakers. Additionally, a radiology quiz testing participants' knowledge and presentations sharing current research were organized as part of the event.

One of the most striking moments of the conference was the presentation of awards to specialized names in the field. Dr. Sam Pamei, a senior radiologist from Supercare Hospital, was honored with the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' for his longstanding contributions in the state of Meghalaya. This award once again highlighted the key role Dr. Pamei played in the development of radiology services in the region. Dr. Kartick Martiwar from Bethany Hospital was presented with the 'Dr. Akash Hadique Memorial Award' due to his outstanding academic achievements as a resident doctor. The award ceremony allowed young and experienced generations to come together under the same roof and share knowledge. The existence of such encouraging awards continues to increase the motivation of medical professionals in the region.

Exciting moments were also experienced in the competitive sections of the event, and participants had the chance to showcase their professional skills. While the Bethany Hospital team won the first prize in the radiology quiz, the NEIGRIHMS team secured the second prize. On the other hand, Dr. Wanboklang Nongsiej from Christian Medical College, Vellore topped the ePoster (digital poster) competition for resident doctors. Dr. Nikita Bhimjiyani and Dr. E Khonglah, working at Shillong Medical College–Civil Hospital, achieved second and third prizes respectively in the same competition, exhibiting a successful performance. These competitions provided an excellent platform for young doctors to share their innovative research and clinical knowledge with their colleagues.

Significant advancements and current challenges in the healthcare infrastructure of the state of Meghalaya were also discussed in detail at the conference. Dr. C Daniala, President of the IRIA Meghalaya State Branch, emphasized that the state has made great strides in both diagnostic and interventional radiology. In particular, the fact that advanced examinations such as cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) are now offered at NEIGRIHMS was considered a major milestone for the region. With this development, NEIGRIHMS has become one of the rare centers providing this high-level service in Northeast India. The ability of the local population to access such complex examinations within their own state helps reduce health tourism and accelerates treatment processes.

During the technical sessions of the conference, innovations in sub-specialty areas such as oncology and interventional procedures were discussed. Branch Secretary Dr. Humsheer S Sethi informed the participants about FDG PET/CT imaging techniques, which play a critical role in cancer diagnosis. Although there is no PET/CT center in Shillong yet, it was noted that local experts keep their knowledge up to date by examining scans that patients have done in other states. Additionally, Dr. Donboklang Lynser, elected for the presidency, made a comprehensive presentation on complex intra-abdominal interventional procedures. It was emphasized that these minimally invasive treatment methods applied under imaging guidance significantly facilitate the recovery processes and increase the comfort of patients in Meghalaya.