THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Jamshedpur, Feb 11: The TMA Pai Center in Jamshedpur came alive with discussions on the future of medical laboratory technology as experts, researchers, and students from across the country gathered for IGNITE 2025.
Organized by the MLT Program, Department of Allied Health Sciences, this maiden conference focused on “Emerging Trends & Challenges in Shaping the Future of Medical Laboratory Technology.” Convened by P. Yashwanth Kumar, Head of the AHS Program, and Dr. Bina Pani Gupta, Organizing Secretary, the event aimed to address the evolving landscape of medical diagnostics.
The conference was inaugurated by the Dean of Manipal Tata Medical College (MTMC), accompanied by the Director, Associate Deans, and the HOD of AHS.
Keynote speakers included Dr. Asha Patil, Dr. Santosh Kumar Singh, Dr. Ramaendra Pati Pandey, Dr. Saket Kumar, and Dr. Ashok, among others. The sessions covered a range of topics, from AI-driven diagnostics to the global fight against antimicrobial resistance.
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One of the most engaging discussions revolved around the role of artificial intelligence in medical laboratories. Experts debated whether AI should replace human expertise or serve as a decision-support tool. While opinions varied, there was a consensus that technology was rapidly transforming the industry.
Challenges in the field also took center stage. Global shortages of skilled laboratory professionals, the high cost of emerging technologies, and data privacy concerns were pressing issues.
Dr. Saket Kumar highlighted the lack of basic laboratory services in rural and underserved areas, while Dr. Asha Patil emphasized the importance of quality management practices in laboratories.
Dr. Ramendra Pati Pandey explored the research potential for medical laboratory professionals, and Dr. Santosh Kumar Singh shed light on emerging microbial diagnostic techniques.
As the event concluded, the HOD of AHS reflected on the discussions, breakthroughs, and collaborations that had taken place. It was clear that the future of medical laboratory technology was not just about innovation but also about the people pushing boundaries to solve real-world challenges.
