A Vision for Global Healthcare at the 27th Biennial CMA Conference in Chennai
New Delhi : In a landmark moment for international healthcare collaboration, Prof (Dr) JA Jayalal was officially installed as the President of the Commonwealth Medical Association (CMA) on November 9, 2024, at the 27th Biennial Conference in Chennai. Succeeding Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai of Malaysia, Prof (Dr) Jayalal now leads an organization representing medical communities across 56 Commonwealth nations, committed to advancing health standards globally.
Commonwealth Medical Association: A Legacy of Service
Founded in 1962 with headquarters in London, the Commonwealth Medical Association (CMA) supports and empowers National Medical Associations within the Commonwealth, driving efforts to improve health and well-being in diverse communities.
Notable Guests and Dignitaries at the Ceremony
The installation ceremony was attended by prominent figures including:
- Dr Suvanand Sahu, Deputy Director, UN Assembly Stop TB, Geneva
- Dr Osahon Enabulele, Past President of the World Medical Association
- Dr R.V. Asokan, President of IMA
- Dr Russel Franco D’Souza, International Director, UNESCO Bioethics
Additionally, Hon’ble Minister S. Regupathy and former Medical Council of India President Dr Ketan Desai sent congratulatory messages to mark the occasion.
Prof (Dr) Jayalal’s Vision for the Commonwealth Medical Association
In his inaugural speech, Prof (Dr) Jayalal outlined a progressive agenda emphasizing:
- Strengthening healthcare access and affordability across the Commonwealth
- Promoting family medicine and digital health
- Addressing antimicrobial resistance and empowering junior doctors
As part of his initiatives, he launched the Commonwealth Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance (CAMP – AMR) and introduced the Commonwealth Declaration on Antimicrobial Resistance and the Commonwealth Declaration for Empowerment of Junior Doctors.
Support and Optimism from International Medical Leaders
Leaders from National Medical Associations across Commonwealth countries expressed their enthusiasm for Prof (Dr) Jayalal’s presidency, anticipating a “golden era” for the CMA under his leadership. Prof (Dr) Jayalal’s tenure is expected to further establish India as a leading voice in global healthcare.
