QMed Returns to Breach Candy Hospital for a PubMed and Zotero Workshop
On 23rd April, QMed conducted a full-day PubMed and Zotero Workshop at the Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai. The workshop focused on strengthening literature searching and reference management skills among healthcare professionals. We covered effective use of PubMed and Zotero, equipping participants with practical tools for research and evidence-based practice.
Interestingly, this was not our first PubMed and Reference Management Workshop at the hospital. We had conducted a similar program in 2019, and both workshops shared a heartening common thread: they were initiated by young doctors who had first encountered QMed through lectures by our Founder, Vasumathi Sriganesh, during their student days.
When Former Students Bring Learning Full Circle
The first workshop in 2019 was initiated by Dr Riitu- from the department of Microbiology. This year, the effort came from Dr Ram, currently pursuing his postgraduate training in Orthopedics at the same institution.
A few months ago, Dr Ram came across one of our newsletters and reached out to reconnect. He visited our office, discussed training possibilities, learned about the earlier workshop, and took the initiative to explore whether the hospital could host another session. His persistence and enthusiasm made it happen.
With Dr Ram and his Co-Residents
With support from senior consultant Dr Arun Mullaji and Lab Director – Pathology & Microbiology – Dr Aruna Poojary, who managed the logistics, the workshop came together smoothly.
Engaged Participation Despite Busy Clinical Schedules
Around 30 participants had registered, though 15 ultimately attended due to unavoidable ward and clinical responsibilities. This is yet another reminder of why such training is most impactful when introduced during student years.
Those who attended, however, made the most of the opportunity. The group—comprising consultants, residents, and laboratory personnel—participated enthusiastically throughout the PubMed and Zotero Workshop, actively engaged in discussions, asked thoughtful questions, and performed well in our Immediate Quizzes
Participants Working at the Immediate Quizzes
Most participants also expressed interest in completing our eLearning courses soon, extending their learning beyond the workshop.
A Welcome Surprise: Strong Participation from Orthopedics
One especially encouraging aspect was the strong presence from the surgical specialty of Orthopedics.
There is a common perception that surgeons tend to stay away from workshops focused on literature searching and research tools. This workshop challenged that notion completely. In fact, Dr Mullaji, (a senior consultant), was deeply engaged throughout—asking numerous questions and contributing actively to discussions.
It was refreshing to see a surgical specialty embrace a PubMed and Zotero Workshop with such openness and seriousness.
A Rewarding Experience Rooted in Long-Term Impact
For us, this workshop was rewarding on many levels. It reaffirmed that training delivered to students can have lasting impact—sometimes returning years later in unexpected and meaningful ways. Former students remembered us, reached out, and helped organize learning opportunities for their institutions.
And equally importantly, it showed that when the right people champion learning, disciplines and stereotypes do not matter.
A wonderful day of teaching, participation, and collaboration—and one more reminder of why this work matters.
Dr Mullaji presenting a Memento
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