Abstract
Background
The major problems that patients in rural areas face are related to accessibility, affordability and availability.
Aims of the study
This study aims to evaluate how effectively the Diagnostic Camp Model of the institution meets the surgical needs of rural patients, by examining the logistics, economics and extent of the service provided.
Settings and design
A retrospective study of patients attending the Diagnostic camps run by the staff of BMCH including the follow-up of these patients at the hospital.
Materials and method
The diagnostic camps involve transporting medical personnel and modern diagnostic equipment into the interior villages of various North Eastern states of India. Patients requiring surgical intervention later attend the hospital for surgery with the assistance of a health insurance scheme.
Statistical analysis
The local C3MDS computer software was used to obtain statistical reports from a diagnostic camp held at Saiha, Mizoram. Previous hospital data and the Government of India census were used to estimate the number of men requiring surgical intervention for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Results
About three quarters of surgical patients, who attended the surgical camp were unaware of their diagnosis prior to the camp. There was an overall profit despite the expected losses at the Hospital. These camps are a feasible and profitable venture on their own. About 50% of patients estimated to require surgical intervention for BPH in three districts of Mizoram received the necessary interventions.
Conclusion
This model is an attractive, cost effective, efficient way of meeting the surgical needs of patients from a large geographical area.
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References
Udwadia TE (2003) Surgical care for the poor: A personal Indian perspective. Indian J Surg 65:504–509
Gnanaraj J, Gnanaraj L, Shah VK (1997) How to bring surgery to remote tribal area. Tropical Doctor 27(3):163–165
Gnanaraj J, Gnanaraj Lionel (2007) Transurethral vaporisation of prostate. A boon to the rural surgeon. (Accepted for publication by the Australia New Zealand Journal of Surgery)
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Gnanaraj, J., Jason, L.Y.X. & Khiangte, H. High quality surgical care at low cost: the diagnostic camp model of Burrows Memorial Christian Hospital (BMCH). Indian J Surg 69, 243–247 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12262-007-0034-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12262-007-0034-0