Arogya Doctor on Wheels Starts Delivering Doorstep Medical Care in J&K

This initiative is aimed at areas with limited access to traditional healthcare facilities, particularly in Panchayat Chanunta and nearby villages.

The 'Arogya Doctor on Wheels' program has been initiated in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district, catering to geographically isolated communities. 

Inspired by PM’s Digital Health Mission, this program specifically targets areas with limited access to conventional healthcare facilities. 

Recently, the program extended its services to Chanunta Panchayat of J&K by providing doorstep medical consultations.

Reportedly, 'Arogya Doctor on Wheels' initiative has benefited numerous residents in Panchayat Chanunta and adjacent villages. This program seeks to effectively address the challenge of limited healthcare access, ensuring residents receive necessary medical attention without facing logistical hurdles.

Empowering Vulnerable Communities 

The 'Arogya Doctor on Wheels' program is a lifeline for vulnerable communities, providing them with direct access to essential medical care. 

Sharing thoughts, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said, "The 'Arogya Doctor on Wheels' program is inspired by the Prime Minister's Digital Health Mission, aiming to provide expert medical consultation at people's doorsteps." 

By bringing healthcare services directly to remote areas, this initiative ensures that even the most marginalized populations can receive quality medical attention, thus mitigating health risks and promoting well-being.

Equipped with the latest technology and systems, the 'Doctor on Wheels' ambulances facilitate seamless connectivity between patients and senior doctors nationwide. 

This initiative sets a precedent for innovative healthcare delivery models prioritizing inclusivity and efficiency by leveraging technology to overcome geographical barriers.

About Doctors on Wheels

The 'Doctors on Wheels' program utilizes specially equipped ambulances staffed by trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics. These ambulances serve as mobile healthcare units, offering medical consultations, diagnostics, and treatment to people in rural and underserved areas.

The initiative's focus on enhancing rural healthcare infrastructure and addressing healthcare gaps aligns with broader efforts to strengthen primary healthcare services and promote universal health coverage. 

Further, by empowering rural communities with access to comprehensive medical care, the 'Arogya Doctor on Wheels' program is pivotal in advancing health equity and ensuring that no one is left behind in essential healthcare services.

J&K's Fortified Digital Health Infrastructure

Simultaneously, in response to government efforts, Jammu & Kashmir stands on the brink of inaugurating its own All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Vijaypur, Samba district. 

With a budget of INR 1,661 Cr, the project has undergone on-the-spot inspection by Dr Jitendra Singh, urging swift completion. The project allocates funds for infrastructure, pre-construction, non-medical furniture, and medical equipment, with a target completion date of January 2024.

In the same vein, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, recently unveiled India's first Tele-MANAS chatbot during the 'J-K Health Conclave.' This chatbot aims to provide 24/7 access to health counselors and psychologists, reinforcing mental health support in the region. 

This month, in Karnataka, the Health and Welfare Minister Dinest Gundu Rao inaugurated a Tele ICU facility at Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) and Hospital in Hubballi. This facility, in collaboration with the department of health and family welfare, offers specialized health advice to patients admitted to village and taluk-level hospitals, reducing the burden on district hospitals

In parallel healthcare developments, the Borderless World Foundation (BWF) introduced "DALPARI," an advanced life support ambulance boat, in Dal Lake, Srinagar. Equipped with cardiac monitors, defibrillators, oxygen support, and trained paramedics, DALPARI aims to provide immediate medical assistance to residents and tourists around Dal Lake during emergencies.

Additionally, the Scan and Share queue management facility achieved a significant milestone in J&K hospitals, generating nearly six lakh tokens within four months of its launch. 

The QR-based OPD registration system was progressively extended from government medical colleges to district hospitals and, ultimately, community health centers, enhancing efficiency and accessibility across healthcare facilities.