Punjab government to launch toll free helpline number to reach out to TB patients

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government today said it will launch a toll free helpline number to reach out to tuberculosis patients across the state.

Any suspected patient can call or even give a missed call on the helpline number and government health workers will contact the person to check the status of TB as well as provide medical intervention, state Health Minister Surjit Kumar Jayani said here.

Anybody who dials helpline number 1800116666 or gives a missed call will get desired information. He also said if the problem is of serious nature, the caller would be given the number of concerned District TB Officer (DTO) for further investigation.

A massive mass awareness campaign through multi-media would be taken up as part of the 'Call to Action for a TB Free India' programme, he said.

He also appealed to various stakeholders across the private sector, civil society members, experts, doctors, patients and caregivers to be a part of the movement to make India TB free.

The minister stated that to achieve the vision of TB free Punjab, the department would ensure 90 per cent coverage of BCG vaccine under 'Mission Indradhanush'.

He also asked the health officers at the district level to employ extensive use of rapid diagnostic kits and active screening of high risk population and ensure treatment.

Jayani added that efforts will be made to ensure a rigorous follow up of treatment and ensure free treatment at the doorsteps.