Shillong, Jan 9: In a state where terrain often hinders delivering essential medical services, Meghalaya is witnessing a quiet healthcare revolution. Nearly 100 doctors trained under a unique partnership with Tamil Nadu have been deployed to some of the state’s most remote regions, bringing hope and critical care to underserved areas.
Principal Secretary for Health, Sampath Kumar, highlighted the program’s success during a media interaction, sharing a poignant example of its impact. “In Pynursla community health centre, we tragically lost a mother due to the lack of ultrasound facilities. Today, we have a trained doctor providing critical diagnostic services there,” Kumar revealed. “This marks a pivotal step in expanding healthcare access to those who need it most.”
The initiative is part of an inter-state healthcare collaboration established in 2022 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Meghalaya and Tamil Nadu. The program trains doctors in Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric Care, Life-Saving Anesthetic Skills, and Ultrasonography, aligning with the Chief Minister’s Safe Motherhood Scheme (CM-SMS) to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
The deployment of these skilled doctors is already reshaping healthcare delivery across Meghalaya. “These doctors are not just providing services but also instilling confidence in communities that quality care is within reach,” Kumar added.
The program’s reach extends beyond individual health centres. Communities, particularly through institutions like Village Health Councils, have been essential in supporting these efforts. “For example, in Wahlyngdoh village, the Village Health Council has ensured 100% institutional deliveries despite difficult terrain. Their efforts have saved lives and significantly reduced maternal deaths,” Kumar noted.
The program’s success has also drawn support from global organizations, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Harvard University. “The Gates Foundation is providing additional manpower and technical expertise, while Harvard has documented a 50% reduction in maternal deaths, highlighting the leadership and community mobilization driving this transformation,” Kumar said.
With plans to send another batch of doctors to Tamil Nadu this month, Meghalaya is doubling down on its commitment to strengthening healthcare in rural areas. “This partnership with Tamil Nadu reflects our resolve to improve healthcare outcomes by building capacity and sharing knowledge. It’s a sustainable model for public health,” Kumar stated.
The collaboration continues to serve as a cornerstone of Meghalaya’s healthcare strategy, ensuring that even the state’s most remote communities receive the care they deserve—one trained doctor at a time.
Read: Logistical bottlenecks stalling Northeast’s agricultural potential: Meghalaya CM
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