GUWAHATI: Assam Government’s noble initiative for children born with Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) is continuing in full spirit. The 11th medical camp for such children was held at the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital.
As of now, a total of 7359 children with CHD have been successfully treated through surgery. This is the highest success rate in Southeast Asia. Moving ahead, it has now been included in the Atal Amrit Abhiyan Scheme.
About Congenital Heart Defect (CHD)
A congenital heart defect (CHD), also known as a congenital heart anomaly or congenital heart disease, is a problem in the structure of the heart that is present at birth. Approximately 9 children in 1000 are born with a congenital heart defect. The cost of treatment is very high.
“We first brought the child to GMC and after examination under the scheme of Assam Government we were flown to Kolkata for treatment. We thank the Assam Governmnet for helping poor people like us. Tons of thanks to the Health Minister as well,” said a parent.
“The government has been spending a lot. We thank the government for the facilites provided to us,” said another parent.
For the past many years with the support of state government and National Health Mission, a noble practice to provide new lives to children born with a hole in the heart is underway.
Specialist doctors from Narayana Hrudyalaya Hospitals come to Guwahati and examine the patients and refer them to the centres as per requirement.
These children are referred to Narayana Hrudyalaya Hospitals in Guwahati, Kolkata, Bombay and Bengaluru for treatment whereby they undergo surgery in modern and latest facilities.
“This is our 11th camp. A camp is being held every year. We have treated 7359 patients and that is highest in Southeast Asia. Important to mention is through this scheme we did the first successful heart transplant and the patient is doing well. All expenses are borne by the government irrespective of the timeline of the treatment,” stated an official.
About the Congenital Heart Disease Scheme of Assam Government
- It is a Government of Assam sponsored scheme.
- The scheme is effective from 1st July 2010.
- Guardian should be permanent residence of Assam.
- Annual Income should not exceed Rs. 6.00 lakhs per annum.
- The children between age group of 0-14 years are eligible for the scheme.
