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Health experts and advocacy groups have lauded the decision of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) chief to offer free blood transfusion therapy to Thalassemia patients, a move aimed at easing the burden faced by those affected by this genetic disorder.
Thalassemia, characterized by an abnormality in hemoglobin production, poses a significant health challenge in India. Patients afflicted with this condition require regular blood transfusions, often at intervals of no more than 20 days. However, shortages in blood supply often exacerbate the challenges faced by Thalassemia patients.
Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director and Chief of BMT at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, hailed the decision as a positive step toward improving the lives of Thalassemia patients. “Providing free blood transfusion therapy to Thalassemia patients will significantly alleviate their struggles and enhance their quality of life,” he remarked.
NCPCR chairman Priyank Kanoongo’s directive, urging state health departments to ensure free blood transfusions for Thalassemia patients, has garnered widespread appreciation. However, experts emphasize the importance of effective implementation, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services may be limited.
Anubha Taneja Mukherjee, Member Secretary of the Thalassemia Patient Advocacy Group, welcomed the initiative while emphasizing the need for clarity on its modalities. “While we commend NCPCR’s proactive stance in recognizing the challenges faced by Thalassemia patients and their families, it is imperative to delineate the specifics of this initiative,” she stated.
Mukherjee highlighted the importance of understanding the scope of the initiative, particularly concerning private healthcare institutions, as Thalassemia treatment is already provided free of charge in government hospitals. She also stressed the need to ascertain whether the initiative encompasses ancillary services such as chelation therapy and diagnostic investigations.
As the healthcare community awaits further details on the implementation of NCPCR’s initiative, experts and advocacy groups express their readiness to support efforts aimed at enhancing access to comprehensive care for Thalassemia patients across the country.
