AP rolls out digital health records, targets 1.1 crore children in deworming

Vijayawada: Health minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav on Tuesday announced the creation of digital health records for all students in the state, stating that the initiative would ensure continuity of care and timely medical intervention. The announcement was made while launching the state-wide distribution and administration of Albendazole tablets at the Mandadam Zilla Parishad High School in Amaravati, marking National Deworming Day on Tuesday.Speaking on the occasion, the health minister said that comprehensive health screenings are being conducted under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) to identify health issues among children at an early stage. Screening is being carried out under the 4D categories, which include developmental delays, defects at birth, diseases and deficiencies.Children diagnosed with health conditions are being referred to District Early Intervention Centres for free treatment. Congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and clubfoot are being corrected through surgical procedures, he said.Highlighting the digital health initiative, the health minister explained that individual electronic health records are being created for students. "Whenever a student visits a hospital, previous treatment details will be accessible online. This will help doctors provide appropriate follow-up care without delay," the minister said.Satya Kumar Yadav further said the state govt set a target to administer Albendazole tablets to 1.11 crore children aged between 1 and 19 years across the state. Of them, 23 lakh children belong to the 1–5 years age group, while the remaining beneficiaries are studying in govt and private educational institutions. Out-of-school children are also being covered under the programme. The drive is being implemented in coordination with the Women and Child Welfare Department and other allied departments to ensure maximum coverage.