Guwahati: Assam has launched a state-wide health screening program aimed at diagnosing and treating children with complex heart and blood disorders. The initiative, which commenced on September 1, will run for ten days and is designed to address conditions such as congenital heart diseases, leukemia, thalassemia, and other rare blood disorders.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a Facebook Live address, urged parents and guardians of children aged 0-14 years to visit the nearest screening camps. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of early detection and intervention, stating that timely treatment can be life-saving.
The program is being implemented across government medical colleges and hospitals statewide, including in remote areas, to ensure comprehensive access to these essential health services. The screening camps will offer detailed diagnostic services to identify and address serious health conditions in children.
Chief Minister Sarma assured that the government is committed to providing necessary medical treatments, including surgeries, for diagnosed cases. He stated, “We will conduct the necessary screenings, and if surgeries are required, they will be carried out either within Assam or abroad, ensuring that financial or logistical barriers do not hinder treatment.”
Particular attention will be given to thalassemia, a severe genetic blood disorder. The government plans to fully fund bone marrow transplants for affected patients, covering expenses ranging from ₹9 to ₹14 lakh. “Bone marrow transplants are crucial for thalassemia patients, and we will make sure that those in need receive this life-saving treatment,” Sarma noted.
The screening program will also address congenital heart defects, with comprehensive care available for children up to 18 years old. Surgeries needed to correct heart issues will be managed through various government schemes, either at local hospitals or external facilities based on the complexity of the case.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Assam government to enhance access to critical medical services for children. By focusing on early diagnosis and treatment, the program aims to alleviate long-term health challenges for families and improve overall child health across the state.
Chief Minister Sarma concluded by encouraging families with eligible children to utilize this opportunity and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring all necessary care and support is provided.