Dr. Nisith Ranjan Chowdhury conducted the first-ever dope tests under FIFA statutes in Indian football during the Federation Cup in Kolkata three years back. Currently a member of the Asian Football Confederation’s medical committee and a FIFA-recognised medical officer, Chowdhury told Micky Aigner that Indian clubs don’t take medical issues seriously What should the team doctor really be?It’s not as easy a job as it seems. The doctor should be a sports medicine expert. The basic theory is to know a player in every possible way.weight checks, past illness, dehydration levels, one can go on and on. It makes life easier in any eventuality. No one can predict what happens in a sport so physical.Any FIFA guidelines on medical provisions during a match/tournament?A medical unit equipped to deal with any situation is mandatory. An ambulance equipped with oxygen, not a transportation vehicle. In fact internationally even referees are trained with basic medical procedures.Are they followed in India?Not seriously. People wake up only when something major occurs, and begin asking how things could be improved.Has the AIFF asked you for suggestions?I have given my feedback, which suggests that a majority of clubs need to set their house in order. That was a long time ago. Unless we impose professionalism at the top no structure can exist below.
