Keeping Kerala Healthy

ON AUGUST 15, after rains had started lashing the state, the medical superintendent and critical care and emergency department heads of Rajagiri Hospital in Aluva, Ernakulam district, met to prepare for a potential disaster.

- Anjuly Mathai

The hospital stocked up on essential commodities like diesel for the generators, oxygen cylinders, food and water. In the ensuing days, medical help was provided to more than 18 camps. An emergency department was set up at the relief camp in UC College, Aluva. Patients from flood-affected hospitals were shifted to Rajagiri. Doctors and medical stafffrom the hospital took care of around 20,000 patients in various camps.

Rajagiri’s is not an isolated case. Many of the hospitals in Kerala, some badly affected by the floods, kicked into action to meet the medical challenges and provide free treatment to patients. “This was a phenomenal example of unity in times of difficulty when both government and private hospitals joined hands,” said Dr Harish Pillai, CEO of Aster India. Pillai says the relief efforts were extremely well-coordinated. A control room was set up in the directorate of health services and the district medical office which channelled the medical efforts. A common pool of medical staff from government and private hospitals was created. Because of efficient use of mobile technology, communication between the district administration and hospitals was very efficient. The list of critical supplies that were needed was constantly updated. A common fleet of ambulances was maintained, commanded by the DMO’s office. Hospitals came to the aid of each other to overcome oxygen shortage.