Staff Reporter
WOKHA, Nov 14 (NPN): The Lotha Doctors Forum (LDF) celebrated its 25th anniversary at Hammock Resort, Wokha, on November 14 with Dr. L.M. Murry, the first Naga to earn a postgraduate degree in Medical Sciences, as the special guest.
In his address, Dr. Murry highlighted the evolution of healthcare in Nagaland, recalling that Wokha was the first district in the state to have a 25-bedded hospital, while other districts had only dispensaries. He also identified Dr. Motsuo Ngully of Okotso village as the first Lotha doctor.
Expressing concern over the increasing commercialisation of healthcare, Dr. Murry said medical services were becoming increasingly linked to corporate interests, pushing treatment costs beyond the reach of many people. He called for a more society-oriented healthcare system, stressing that access to treatment should not be determined by a person’s financial capacity.
Referring to the growing use of advanced treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy and robotic surgery, he pointed to the rising cost of medical procedures and the challenges they pose for ordinary patients. He urged doctors to carefully assess patients’ conditions and medical parameters before recommending intensive treatment.
Stressing the importance of the doctor-patient relationship, he said trust and human understanding remained central to effective healthcare. He asserted that no person should be denied treatment because of financial constraints and maintained that access to healthcare must not be dictated by economic circumstances.
The celebration marked 25 years of the forum’s contribution to healthcare and social service within the Lotha community.
A brief history of the LDF was presented by advisor to the Chief Minister and founding president of the forum, Dr. Chumben Murry. He traced the organisation’s journey since its establishment on September 22, 2001, highlighting its founding objectives of promoting social welfare, improving healthcare services and encouraging medical education among members.
He recalled that the forum began with around 80 members but now the forum has more members reflecting the progress made over the past 25 years.
Emphasising a people-centric approach to healthcare, Dr. Chumben Murry urged doctors to leave a meaningful impact on society through their profession. The formal session was chaired by retired Director (Dental), Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Meribeni Odyuo, while the invocation was offered by Assistant Pastor, WTBC, Chumbenthung Murry.
The welcome address and obituary were delivered by LDF president Dr. Renben Tungoe, followed by the dedication of the souvenir by assistant pastor, WTBC, Zurenthung Humtsoe.
Sharing reflections during the programme, retired Additional Director, Health & Family Welfare, Dr. W.N. Ezung; Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, K. Mhathung Tsanglao; and chairman of Lotha Hoho, Er. Mhondamo Ovung, expressed gratitude for the forum’s 25-year journey and voiced hope for greater contributions to society in the years ahead.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Thungdeno P. Murry, while the benediction was pronounced by Dr. Atheo Murry, the first Lotha private medical practitioner.