Toll-free helpline launched for TB patients

Tribune News Service

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Amritsar, June 18

With an aim to reach out to the TB patients all over the country, the Government of India has launched a toll free number 1800116666. Local health authorities headed by Civil Surgeon launched the number in city today.

“Any suspected patient with symptoms of the disease can contact at this number. The patient can also give a miss call at the number and the person concerned will contact the patient by calling him on his mobile phone. The toll-free number has been initially launched in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi,” said Dr Jai Singh, Civil Surgeon.

Speaking on the occasion, he said, “India accounts for around 25 per cent out of total TB patients reported all over globe. While the number of drug resistant TB patients is also on the rise especially our country.”

The major obstruction in tackling the problem in India was to reach out to the TB patients. With this helpline, suspected TB patients or existing patients could easily contacted and provided necessary assistance, he added.

Dr Naresh Chawla, district TB officer, said, “In case a TB patient is getting problem in the medication, his number will be flashed to the medical practitioner concerned in his area, who will reach him within 48-hours. This will also help in getting right diagnosis, besides treatment and regular follow ups.”