Dr. Sreenath KR
KOA President
It is with profound gratitude and humility that I pen down these words as the President of Kerala Orthopedic Association. This office is both an honor and a responsibility that I do not take lightly.
First, let me extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for placing your trust in me. I am especially grateful to my predecessors, whose leadership, vision, and dedication have laid the foundation for the progress we see today.
Orthopedics is not just a medical specialty; it is a commitment to restore mobility, relieve pain, and improve the quality of life for countless patients. As we navigate the complexities of our field—it is clear that our association plays a critical role in shaping the future.
There is a study conducted by IMA KSB titled ‘physicians mortality from 2007 to 2017’. Its conclusion is quite startling. physicians life expectancy is almost 10 years less than that of general population in Kerala. Reasons for this is not well studied. The possible reason may be that we doctors care less about our own health. Along with that there is a thinking that we doctors should not be ill, and we are fully capable of self treating. Professional stress may also be taking a toll on our wellbeing.
There is a sloka in the epic Sanskrit Mahakavya written by Kalidasa.. ‘Kumarasambavam’
शरीरमाद्यं खलु धर्मसाधनम्
(SARIRAMADYAM KHALU DHARMASADHANAM)
The meaning of this sloka is that the body is the first and best mean of dharma, and that it is also the medium through which dharma can be practiced.
The sloka implies that all life activities are only possible through the body, and that it is therefore our primary duty to keep ourselves healthy. A healthy body helps one achieve great goals in life.
My presidential theme for 2025-26 is
Prioritise Your Health.. Pursue for Excellence
Here health is as envisaged by WHO. -state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely absence of disease or infirmity-
I intend to reiterate the importance of our own health in our pursuit for excellence
I urge the district chapters to organise programs highlighting the importance of physician wellness which includes stress management,work life balance and healthy professional environment and also arrange avenues for preventive health checkups.
This year KOA is in for a number of academic, cultural, social and sporting activities. I solicit wholehearted participation of each and every one of you to make this a year to remember for our association
One area that we are lagging behind is IOA membership. Only around 50% of KOA members have IOA membership.Let us encourage those who have not yet become a member of IOA to do so, so that our voice will be well heard in IOA parlours
Our strength lies in the collective expertise, passion, and dedication of our members. I invite each of you to join me in shaping the next chapter of our association. Your ideas, feedback, and active participation will be invaluable as we chart this course together.
In closing, I pledge to serve you with integrity, transparency, and enthusiasm. Together, we can ensure that Kerala Orthopedic Association continues to be a beacon of excellence in the field of orthopedics.
Thank you for this opportunity, and I look forward to work with you all to achieve great things.
Thank you!
Dr Sreenath KR
KOA President