0
0
Hyderabad, August 28, 2024 – In a bid to revolutionize healthcare accessibility, the Telangana government has decided to study the model adopted by France for issuing digital health cards to its citizens. This initiative comes as part of a broader strategy to improve healthcare infrastructure and ensure that all eligible residents receive timely and effective medical services.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, during a review meeting held on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of learning from global best practices. He noted that during his recent foreign visit, he was informed that France has implemented an exemplary system for issuing digital health cards, which could serve as a valuable reference for Telangana.
The government has also announced the resumption of the ‘Praja Palana’ programme from September 17, which will focus on issuing new ration cards and health cards to all eligible citizens. Unlike previous initiatives, the ration cards and health cards will be issued separately, reflecting the government’s decision to delink these essential services.
The newly issued health cards will be exclusively used to provide medical treatment under the Rajiv Arogyasri scheme and for assistance from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF). This move is expected to streamline healthcare delivery and ensure that citizens receive the benefits they are entitled to without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
During the 10-day ‘Praja Palana’ programme, officials will collect detailed information on every family in the state. The Chief Minister has directed that comprehensive health checkup camps be conducted in villages, with the support of local laboratories. These camps will play a crucial role in recording the health profiles of citizens, which will be integrated into the digital health card system.
The review meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including State Health Minister Damodara Raja Narsimha, Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari, Principal Secretary of the Health Department Dr. Christina Chongtoo, Principal Secretary of the Municipal Department Dana Kishore, and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Seshadri.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also addressed the growing concern over seasonal diseases in the state, particularly Dengue, Chikungunya, and other viral fevers. He urged health officials to intensify preventive measures, including fogging and spraying operations to control the mosquito population in both urban and rural areas.
The Chief Minister warned that any indifference by public health employees in executing these preventive measures would lead to suspension from service. He also called for coordinated efforts between the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Medical and Health officials, and district collectors to tackle the spread of seasonal diseases effectively.
In addition, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns, urging the involvement of police, voluntary organizations, and the media in educating the public about the risks of seasonal diseases and the importance of preventive measures.
As Telangana prepares to adopt a digital health card system, the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and public health protection remains a top priority. The lessons learned from France’s successful implementation of digital health cards will likely shape the future of healthcare in Telangana, ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of technological advancements in public health.
