Digital Health ATM at Dantewada, Chattisgarh
Health ATM – A unique digital healthcare initiative at Dantewada
Over 40 different types of medical tests, including cardiac checkup, reproductive and child health related tests, diabetes, infectious diseases, lungs and respiratory checkup services have been installed as part of the Health ATM services.
Access to healthcare and medical services in the villages of Kuakonda block in Dantewada district is difficult, since the area is quite remote. The district does have a hospital, CHCs, PHCs and SHCs but these are minimally equipped. The nearest available facility is almost 10km away.
Recognizing these challenges, Essar Foundation has devised a unique healthcare initiative that will serve as an alternative to expensive, inaccessible treatment, and will also alleviate some pressure off over-burdened hospitals in the area. With the support of the District Administration and Health Department, Essar Foundation has established the first Health ATM at the Primary Health Centre in Palnar, which is 34 km away from the district headquarters.
Over 40 different types of medical tests, including cardiac checkup, reproductive and child health related tests, diabetes, infectious diseases, lungs and respiratory checkup services have been installed as part of the Health ATM services. The ATM connect patients with certified doctors using high-definition videoconferencing and web/mobile applications. It also provides quick and convenient preventive health screening.
The Health ATM is the first true integration of tele-health and personal healthcare. This will make treatment smarter and simpler. With the first free-standing healthcare kiosk of its kind, a quick preventive health screening or a consultation with a healthcare professional face-to-face via video conference, is now possible.
On 27th November, the District Collector, Mr. Saurabh Kumar visited the Health Centre at Palnar and inaugurated the Health ATM. He also commented that it is the first time that such a telecommunication and diagnostic service has been established in Palnar.
