‘Doctor of the Future’ conference hosts Karen Hospital CEO

Dr B.M Gikonyo address the students at the Doctor of the Future Conference

Dr Betty Gikonyo had the privilege of addressing young medical students at an annual conference dubbed “The doctor of the Future”. The conference that was organized by the Association of Medical Students of the University of Nairobi (AMSUN) had students from various institutions including University of Nairobi, Moi University, Egerton University and Kenyatta University.

Dr Gikonyo, the guest speaker at the event, encouraged the young aspiring doctors, “You are doctors at a time when the medical field has become advanced and we are able to treat and perform surgical procedures via telemedicine; advancements in technology have made it not only easier but also better to detect diseases and give the right diagnosis.”

Dr Gikonyo addresses some of the officials of AMSUN

She added that in order to be a doctor of the future, one must be able to see a vision not only in medicine put also in business, “The doctor who not only thinks of how to treat that disease but is also business oriented, willing to interact with various stakeholders and experts in different fields, be it in the private or public sector, to ensure that Kenya has more hospitals, is a doctor of the future.”

The co-founder of the Heart to Heart foundation said that there is no greater joy as a doctor than to give treatment to the people of your country. The foundation that has had over 300 open heart surgeries done in Kenya is the basis of exemplary cardiac services in the country.

Dr Gikonyo With AMSUN Chair and Prof Were

“Think beyond your Grey’s anatomy books and see how you can benefit your fellow countrymen. We need doctors who are bold enough to take that leap in to the future and build hospitals with all the facilities and amenities that will ensure that our citizens do not require to go abroad for their treatment and instead get the treatment at home.”

AMSUN chairperson, Felix Mogaka said that they are venturing in making the doctors of tomorrow more flexible. “This is a unique platform for medical students to not only showcase their research activities but also be inspired by our great speakers from the medical fraternity.”

The two day conference was held at the Brook House School.