Dr Tinojongshi Chang, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, with Dr Atoka Sumi and others at the inauguration of ‘Skin Clinic By Dr Atoka Sumi’ in Dimapur on February 10. (Morung Photo)
‘Skin Clinic By Dr Atoka Sumi’ opens in Dimapur
Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 10
A new dermatology facility, Skin Clinic By Dr Atoka Sumi, was inaugurated today by Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr Tinojongshi Chang as the special guest.
Located at Li-Complex, Circuit House Colony, Urban Haat Road, Dimapur, the inauguration was attended by family, friends, and well-wishers.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Chang mentioned that health is a state of overall physical and mental well-being.
He noted that the skin, being one of the body’s most vital organs, plays a crucial protective role, yet many people remain unaware of proper skin care practices.
He further observed that rising pollution, changing climatic conditions, and increasing stress levels in Dimapur have contributed to growing skin-related concerns.
Accordingly, DC Chang held that the launch of the clinic comes at a much-needed time, given the visible increase in dermatological issues in the district.
He urged the doctors and staff to go beyond treatment by creating awareness and educating the public on skin care, as well as on the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on skin health.
Chang also expressed confidence that the clinic would serve the community effectively and has the potential to grow into a centre of excellence accessible to people from all walks of life.
Acknowledging those present, Dr Sumi said the clinic represents not just the inauguration of a space but the realisation of a long-held dream shaped by years of hard work, learning, and sacrifice.
Medicine for him, goes beyond a profession. He described it as a “calling to serve people in their most vulnerable moments.” Dr Sumi expressed gratitude to his parents, wife, family, and well-wishers for their unwavering support.
With about 16 years of experience in dermatology, Dr Sumi previously served as Senior Resident at NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, for three and a half years after completing his post-graduation in Kolkata.
He later worked as Consultant Dermatologist at Eden Medical Centre, Dimapur (2017–2025), before deciding to venture into independent practice.
The clinic is equipped with two laser machines, Hydrafacial technology introduced for the first time in Nagaland, and a minor operating theatre (OT).
Dr Sumi stated that while services will remain affordable, the clinic will strive to maintain high standards of care.
Caution urged on social media skincare trends
When asked about his unique selling point, Dr Sumi pointed to the shortage of qualified dermatologists in Nagaland, making professional dermatological services all the more important.
He also raised concern over the growing number of practitioners and even professionals from other medical departments venturing into skin treatment without formal training.
He urged patients to do proper research before consulting a doctor. “Just because someone is a doctor does not mean he or she is qualified to treat every specific field,” he said, stressing that dermatology requires years of focused study and expertise.
He advised the public not to rely solely on social media trends when making decisions about their skin health.
Dr Sumi also clarified that the clinic caters to patients from all age groups, addressing a common misconception that dermatology services are meant only for adults.
He explained that skin-related problems can occur at any stage of life, from the day a person is born until old age. “We see everything,” he said, adding that the clinic treats skin, hair, and nail conditions, along with sexually transmitted diseases and illnesses such as leprosy.
From the paediatric age group to the elderly, the facility provides inclusive and comprehensive care.
Consultation services will be available from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Saturday, starting February 11. An online appointment portal is also expected to be launched within the next one month.
