30 April 2021

The College is watching the catastrophic and deadly effects of the latest wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India with growing alarm and profound concern. The College has members, Fellows, friends and colleagues in India, as well as UK members and College staff who are desperately worried for family and other loved ones.

 

We ask those who can, to urgently donate to the BAPIO (British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) India COVID Fund to help them reach their target of £500,000. The funds will be used to provide oxygen, food, essential medical equipment as well as expert medical help. 

 

Dr Mike Osborn, President, The Royal College of Pathologists: 

`My thoughts are with everyone in India, and particularly our colleagues and friends there who are dealing with the brutal and devastating effects of this terrible disease.

Hearing first-hand accounts from healthcare staff who have to watch helplessly, unable to care for their patients in the way they would wish to, is heart breaking. I want to let our members, colleagues and friends here and in India know that our thoughts and sympathies are with you at this time and that the College will do everything it can to support you.’ 

 

We are particularly concerned about the emotional impact this crisis might have on our trainees of Indian origin, and encourage them to reach out to their Training Programme Directors and trainee representatives for support and advice if needed.'

The College is in contact with our international advisers and the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO) to offer support and assistance where we can.