Madurai corporation set to launch ‘Hospital on Wheels’ project

Madurai: Madurai corporation will launch "Hospital on Wheels" in the coming week to provide health services for people who cannot travel to a hospital or primary health care centres (PHCs).A new medical mobile unit acquired by the corporation has been equipped with advanced medical tools, lab equipment, a stretcher and a generator making it capable of treating patients on the spot. The unit will soon start doing patrols around the city, working on a need-by-need basis and responding to emergencies."The aim of the mobile unit is to provide immediate and complete care to those in need," said Dr Abhishek, an assistant city health officer, adding that the unit will work as a mini hospital rather than an ambulance. The air-conditioned unit is equipped with a fridge and washroom.The unit is also capable of collecting and testing blood samples, which would be useful in identifying illnesses and diseases and administering treatment on the spot. Abhishek said the unit will take vaccination drives to people's doorstep. "Mothers in labour need not worry about being rushed to a hospital in case of an emergency, as the mobile unit is equipped to handle childbirth," Abhishek said and added that an ultrasound machine can be fitted in the unit to facilitate routine checkups as well.An MoU was signed with Velammal Medical College to provide a doctor, nurse and lab technician to operate the unit. The corporation will handle the maintenance of equipment and the unit itself. The unit is designed to run 24/7.