HT Correspondent
SILCHAR, Jan 22: The Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) initiative has made significant strides in bringing quality healthcare services closer to the people of Cachar district. With the establishment of 176 centers across the region, this ambitious program seeks to provide Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC) services that are not only accessible and affordable but also of high quality. This transformative step underscores Assam’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage.
The Ayushman Arogya Mandir centers are equipped to offer a wide spectrum of services, including maternal and child healthcare, management of non-communicable diseases, emergency medical care, and basic diagnostic facilities, alongside the provision of free essential drugs. These centers are designed to function as a vital healthcare lifeline for the local community, ensuring timely and comprehensive care for all.
A key highlight of the initiative is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between 27 Tea Gardens in Cachar and the District Health Society, Cachar. Under this agreement, Tea Garden Hospitals will be transformed into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, bringing quality healthcare services directly to tea garden workers and their families. This integration of healthcare into the lives of tea garden communities exemplifies a targeted approach to address their unique challenges.
The official launch of the initiative took place at the Old CM Block in Janata Bhawan, Guwahati, in the presence of the Ashok Singhal, minister of health & family welfare and irrigation and the minister of labour welfare, tea tribes, and Adivasi welfare, Rupesh Gowala. Simultaneously, a district-level launch ceremony was held at the Old Conference Hall of the District Commissioner’s Office in Silchar, attended by public representatives, tea garden management, district administrators, and health officials.
Ayushman Arogya Mandir initiative is built on a foundation of 12 essential health services, addressing key areas such as pregnancy care, neonatal and infant health, family planning, and the management of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. The program also extends its scope to emergency and trauma care, as well as basic oral, ophthalmic, ENT, and mental health services. This holistic approach aims to cover a wide range of healthcare needs, ensuring no one is left behind.
Notbly,to strengthen the healthcare framework within tea gardens, Community Health Officers (CHOs) have been appointed to serve as the first point of contact in these hospitals. With CHOs already deployed in 21 Tea Garden Hospitals, the program is poised to deliver immediate and effective care to tea garden workers and their families.
Ayushman Arogya Mandir initiative represents a collaborative effort between the Assam government and health authorities to address the pressing healthcare needs of underserved communities. By focusing on preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative care, the program is not only transforming the healthcare delivery system but also paving the way for a healthier and more equitable future for the people of Cachar.