-₹3.52 Crore Spent on Life-Saving Procedures at Empanelled Hospitals Across Punjab
— Mobile Health Teams Screen Children in Govt Schools and Anganwadis, Says Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh
Chandigarh, February 26:
In a heartwarming initiative aimed at securing the health of its youngest citizens and building a healthier future, the Punjab Government , led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann , has successfully provided free heart surgeries to 341 children suffering from congenital heart disease during the financial year 2024-25 so far. This was announced by Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Wednesday.
Congenital heart disease, a birth defect affecting the heart or nearby blood vessels, often requires expensive surgical interventions that are financially out of reach for many families. Recognizing this challenge, the Punjab government has stepped in to cover the entire cost of treatment , offering these children a second chance at life.
This initiative is part of the broader Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) , a national program focused on the early detection and management of health issues in children.
Government’s Investment in Saving Lives
According to official data shared by Dr. Balbir Singh, the Punjab government spent ₹3.52 crore on these life-saving procedures during the fiscal year 2024-25 (up to December 2024). The surgeries were performed at prestigious empanelled hospitals across the state, ensuring high-quality care for the young patients.
Role of Mobile Health Teams
To ensure the effective implementation of the RBSK program, the Punjab Health Department has deployed mobile health teams across the state. These teams, comprising four members —two doctors (one male and one female), a nurse, and a pharmacist skilled in data management—are equipped with all necessary testing tools, medicines, and vehicles.
These teams regularly visit government schools and anganwadis to screen children for health issues, including congenital heart defects. Early detection through these screenings plays a crucial role in timely intervention and treatment.
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Health Cards for Continuous Monitoring
A unique feature of the program is the health card maintained for each child. This digital record tracks their medical history , growth , and development , enabling continuous monitoring and timely medical intervention. This system ensures that children remain on the path to good health and receive the care they need without delays.
Commitment to Transforming Healthcare
Highlighting the government’s commitment to transforming healthcare in Punjab, Dr. Balbir Singh said:
“This initiative reflects our government’s dedication to protecting and promoting a healthy childhood for every child in Punjab. We are determined to make our state a model for healthcare excellence, and this achievement marks a significant step toward that goal.”
The success of this program underscores the Punjab government’s resolve to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to all its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable. By addressing critical health challenges like congenital heart disease, the government is not only saving lives but also paving the way for a healthier and brighter future for Punjab’s children.
This effort reaffirms Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision of a corruption-free and people-centric administration , where the welfare of citizens remains the top priority.
