Munish Sood
MANDI
For residents of Patari Ghat, around 31 km from Mandi town, access to specialised healthcare often means travelling considerable distances. On Thursday, however, medical advice, diagnostic tests and medicines came closer to their doorstep as the Rotary Club Chhoti Kashi Mandi, in collaboration with the Ayush Department, Sarkaghat, organised an Ayurvedic Multi-Speciality Medical Camp in the village.
The camp provided much-needed medical attention to 157 people, many of whom availed themselves of consultations with specialist doctors without having to travel to larger health centres.
Besides medical consultations, the patients underwent blood sugar and haemoglobin (Hb) tests, helping doctors identify common health concerns and advise them on further care. The camp also went beyond treatment, with participants being introduced to the importance of yoga and simple practices that can be incorporated into their daily routines for better physical and mental well-being.
For several needy patients, the support did not end with consultation. The Rotary Club Chhoti Kashi Mandi provided medicines free of cost, ensuring that financial constraints did not come in the way of following medical advice.
The initiative also reflected the importance of community participation in taking healthcare services to rural areas. Local panchayat representatives played an important role in facilitating the camp and mobilising residents.
Rotary Club Chhoti Kashi Mandi President Akhilesh Bharti said the initiative was aimed at bringing quality healthcare and expert medical advice closer to people living in rural areas.
“Healthcare should not remain confined to towns and cities. Our effort is to take medical services to people who may otherwise find it difficult to travel for specialised consultation,” he said, adding that the club would continue to organise similar initiatives in the areas of healthcare and community service.
The project was directed by Rotarian Dr Hemlata, whose team coordinated the medical outreach initiative with the Ayush Department, local representatives and community members.
The Rotary Club expressed gratitude to the Ayush doctors and staff, panchayat representatives and all those who contributed to making the camp successful.
