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The Hindu
a day ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Organ transplants hit by fund constraints and infrastructural deficiencies: report
A report released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has revealed that the organ transplantation programme in the country has been crippled by multiple issues, especially insufficient funding, shortage of specialised doctors, and procedural delays. The report dated June 19, 2025, which followed a high-level meeting of senior health officials to review the status of organ transplantation activities in government hospitals and identify the key challenges, pointed to infrastructural deficiencies, especially shortage of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds and lack of financial support to patients who required lifelong medication that was expensive. Explaining the bottlenecks and other issues faced by State-owned institutions, the report said only 13,476 kidney transplants were performed, both in government and private hospitals, against the recommended 1 lakh cases last year. The capacity of government hospitals was not adequate to meet the target of organ transplants and creation of new centres were 'definitely' required. Infrastructural issues The report elaborated on the lack of facilities in government healthcare institutions, saying a significant number of government hospitals had reported the absence of dedicated infrastructure for organ retrieval and transplantation, including specialised transplant operation theatres (OTs) and dedicated Transplant Intensive Care Units (TICUs). Existing OTs and ICUs were frequently overburdened with general patient loads. A critical and frequently cited issue was the shortage of ICU beds, which were essential for maintaining potential brain-stem dead (BSD) donors and for post-operative care of recipients. In many trauma centres, beds were unavailable for potential donors due to high patient volume. Many institutions, including several All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), lacked in-house Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) cross-matching laboratory facilities. The dependency on external laboratories was causing significant delays and logistical challenges in the transplantation process. Several government hospitals had stated that their current facilities required substantial logistical and infrastructural upgrades to meet the standards necessary for performing complex transplant procedures. The report compiled by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation, which convened the meeting, said the shortage of specialised faculty coupled with frequent transfer of trained personnel, was disrupting the continuity and establishment of transplant programmes. A major bottleneck was the scarcity of dedicated and trained transplant surgeons, nephrologists, urologists, anaesthetists, neurosurgeons/neurologists and intensivists within the government hospitals. Experts representing various government institutions in different States flagged issues relating to delays in obtaining formal approval and constitution of the BSD Committees, which was essential to initiate deceased organ donation programme. The handling of medico-legal cases, particularly involving trauma patients who represented the largest pool of potential donors, was often cumbersome and lacked a streamlined process, thereby discouraging organ donation. Burden on patients On the paucity of funds, the report said some hospitals had reported inadequate funds to initiate or restart specialised transplant programs, such as lung transplantation, which necessitated expensive equipment and preservatives. A significant concern was the high cost of immunosuppressant drugs, which patients must take for life. The financial support available under current schemes was often limited to the first year, imposing a substantial burden on patients thereafter. It was highlighted that there were no formal incentives for transplant and organ donation teams (surgeons, nurses, coordinators etc) on a case-by-case basis. Such incentives could motivate them to increase the number of transplants. The non-inclusion of liver and heart transplantation and the associated lifelong follow-up costs in major Central health schemes like Ayushman Bharat were identified as significant barriers for underprivileged patients The report 'strongly recommended that liver and heart transplantation, including the lifelong cost of immunosuppressants for post-transplant recipients, be comprehensively included under the central Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana [AB-PMJAY] scheme'.
Fashion Value Chain
3 days ago
- Health
- Fashion Value Chain
S.L. Raheja Hospital Launches AI-Enabled Digital Pet CT, 3T-MRI, and Advanced NICU-PICU Units
S.L. Raheja Hospital – A Fortis Associate, strengthened its commitment to delivering state-of-the-art diagnostic care with the launch of AI-enabled Digital Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography (Digital PET CT) scan and 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (3T-MRI) services. These additions mark a milestone in the hospital's journey toward providing precision-driven diagnostics and critical paediatric care in Mumbai. (Centre) Trustee Mr C.L. Raheja is joined by other dignitaries at the launch of NICU PICU Unit, MRI and digital PET CT Scan at S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim, Mumbai-A Fortis Associate This is the second digital PET CT scan facility of its kind in Mumbai, bringing world-class imaging capabilities closer to patients. In addition, the hospital introduced advanced Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) services to further enhance critical care for infants and children. The hospital has introduced top-tier technology and upgraded facilities as part of their ongoing effort to bring precision and AI enabled diagnostic modalities to deliver advanced diagnostics excellence and patient centric care. The facilities were inaugurated by Mr. Chandru Lachmandas Raheja, Trustee, S. L. Raheja Hospital. The launch ceremony was also graced by Trustees Ms. Jyoti Raheja, Mr. Ravi Raheja, Mr. Akshay Raheja and Mr. Neel Raheja & Mr. Ramesh Valecha, Treasurer – DAI. Also present were Mr. Anil Vinayak, Group Chief Operating Officer, Fortis Healthcare; Mr. Ashish Bhatia, Executive Vice President, Fortis Healthcare; Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head-Fortis Hospitals Maharashtra, Dr. Kunal Punamiya, CEO – S.L. Raheja Hospital; and Lt. Gen Dr. V. Ravishankar, Medical Advisor. Their collective presence underscored the significance of this milestone in advancing healthcare excellence in the region. The AI-enabled PET CT and MRI facilities, which will be headed by Dr Mary Anne Joseph, Head-Nuclear Imaging and Dr Sanjay Bhatia, Consultant-Dept. of Radiology, respectively. The new digital PET CT delivers enhanced resolution, faster imaging time, and improved patient comfort. It is equipped with AI-enabled software to provide better precision in identifying lesions. This technology is used for cancer, neurology, infection, inflammation, and cardiology-for diagnosis, staging, and assessment of treatment response. Fast imaging on digital PET-CTs also helps cut down on treatment delays. By bringing these advanced imaging modalities to the community, S.L. Raheja Hospital – A Fortis Associate, strengthens access to expert cancer care and other diagnostic services, supporting early detection and timely intervention for better patient outcomes. The state-of-the-art 3 Tesla MRI machine is AI-enabled and will produce sharper more detailed high-resolution images, has a stronger magnet that allows for faster scans, which reduces patient time in the machine and improves workflow, and comes with enhanced precision which helps in early diagnosis and more accurate treatment planning. With the introduction of this advanced MRI, along with PET-CT capabilities, S.L. Raheja Hospital is making world-class testing modalities accessible not only to the local community but also to patients across Mumbai-bringing cutting-edge diagnostic care closer to where it's needed most. NICU and PICU feature a thoughtfully designed environment with bright, soothing color palettes and dedicated zones for family comfort, aimed at creating a calming atmosphere that supports faster recovery for young patients. The NICU houses seven beds, and is fully equipped with high-frequency ventilators, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) units, LED phototherapy systems, and medical-grade sterilizers. The PICU consists of four beds, with one dedicated isolation bed for immunocompromised or infectious cases, ensuring maximum protection and personalized care. Designed to facilitate both medical excellence and emotional well-being, this unit will be supported by pediatric facilities, located on the same floor with 4 beds for seamless coordination between departments and timely, integrated care for both infants & children. It will be headed by Dr Asmita Mahajan, Consultant Neonatologist & Pediatrician. Speaking at the launch, Dr S. Narayani, Business Head-Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra, said, 'At S. L. Raheja Hospital, we have always believed in pushing the boundaries of excellence in patient care. The launch of our advanced NICU, PICU, and cutting-edge PET CT and MRI facilities is a major step forward in our commitment to providing world-class, technology-driven healthcare. These upgrades not only strengthen our pediatric and diagnostic services but also reflect our continued investment in the health and well-being of our community.' 'With this launch, we are reaffirming our commitment to delivering best-in-class pediatric and diagnostic care. We are harnessing the best AI has to offer with the launch of the PET-CT with latest imaging technologies and AI-enabled precision tools, designed to enhance accuracy, speed, and patient comfort. Our advanced digital PET-CT detects even the smallest tumors, often missed by earlier technologies. Paired with the new 3 Tesla MRI, which enables faster scans, patients-especially those with claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces)-can now experience greater comfort and efficiency. The NICU and PICU are equipped not just with the latest medical technologies, but also designed with a deep focus on safety, comfort, and emotional support for our young patients and their families at their deepest hour of need. These new facilities, built on a foundation of compassionate, evidence-based care are helmed by experts,' said Dr Kunal Punamiya, CEO, S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate. About Fortis Healthcare Limited Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Berhad Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 27 healthcare facilities, ~4,750 operational beds (including O&M facilities), and over 400 diagnostics centers (including JVs). The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with a global major and parent company – IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs over 23,000 people (including Agilus Diagnostics Limited) who share its vision of becoming the world's most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.
Newsweek
6 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
Brain Dead Woman's Baby Delivered After Abortion Law Forced Her Kept Alive
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A Georgia woman who was forced to carry a child for months while brain dead gave birth to the baby. She's now expected to be removed from life support. Why It Matters Georgia's Living Infants Fairness and Equality (LIFE) Act, also known as the "Heartbeat Bill," was passed by state lawmakers mostly on party lines in 2019 and signed by Governor Brian Kemp, in most instances banning abortions after six weeks. It officially went into effect in July 2022 when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which led to similar laws passed in other states nationwide amid a backlash from pro-abortion advocates. What To Know Adriana Smith, 30, a mother and registered nurse from Atlanta, gave birth in the early morning hours of June 13 to a baby boy named Chance, according to local NBC affiliate WXIA-TV in Atlanta. Chance was born prematurely by an emergency Cesarean section and, according to Smith's mother, April Newkirk, weighs about 1 pound, 13 ounces and is currently in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). "He's expected to be OK," Newkirk told WXIA. "He's just fighting. We just want prayers for him. Just keep praying for him. He's here now." People hold signs during a protest against passed abortion ban bills at the Georgia State Capitol building, on May 21, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. People hold signs during a protest against passed abortion ban bills at the Georgia State Capitol building, on May 21, 2019 in Atlanta, multiple medical episodes in February, Smith—who was about nine weeks pregnant at the time—was ultimately diagnosed with blood clots. She spent roughly 120 days being hooked to machines to stay alive so she could deliver the child, per state law and until the fetus reaches viability. She is located at Emory Midtown. On Tuesday, Smith is expected to be taken off life support, according to her mother. "It's kind of hard, you know," Newkirk said. "It's hard to process. ... I'm her mother. I shouldn't be burying my daughter. My daughter should be burying me." Doctors were initially reported to be waiting until the fetus was at about 32 weeks' gestation. Smith was roughly 21 weeks pregnant in mid-May. In May, an Emory Healthcare spokesperson provided the following statement to Newsweek: "Emory Healthcare uses consensus from clinical experts, medical literature, and legal guidance to support our providers as they make individualized treatment recommendations in compliance with Georgia's abortion laws and all other applicable laws. Our top priorities continue to be the safety and wellbeing of the patients we serve." Newsweek reached out to the hospital via email for updates. What People Are Saying Kara Murray, spokesperson for the Georgia Attorney General's Office, in a statement about state law and Smith's situation: "There is nothing in the LIFE Act that requires medical professionals to keep a woman on life support after brain death. Removing life support is not an action with the purpose to terminate a pregnancy." Newkirk to WXIA-TV: "I'm not saying we would have chosen to terminate her pregnancy. But I'm saying we should have had a choice. ... I think all women should have a choice about their body. And I think I want people to know that." What Happens Next Smith also has a 7-year-old son who reportedly believes his mother has been asleep for the past few months. Newkirk said the family will eventually share the news with him about his new brother and his mom's condition.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Johnson City Medical Center experiencing power outage
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC) experienced a power outage Thursday that has resulted in service changes. JCMC said that the power outage affected the ability to produce cold air and that the cooling units are being repaired. The hospital established Incident Command and implemented emergency protocols as a result. All patients at the hospital will continue to have complete clinical services. However, JCMC will only perform emergency procedures until the cooling units can be repaired. The hospital said it will only accept transfers for trauma, stroke, or patients requiring the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) from other facilities. JCMC asked that visitors avoid the hospital unless part of an emergency safety plan to help 'preserve resources and maintain a safe environment.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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Business Standard
04-06-2025
- General
- Business Standard
Covid-19 cases rising again: Should you wear a mask again? Experts say yes
Remember when we all hoped Covid-19 would just disappear? The virus, however, is not done with us yet. If you've been wondering whether masks, vaccines, and precautions still matter in 2025, health experts believe they do. A renewed push for caution follows a slow uptick in cases and concern over emerging Omicron sub-variants. According to doctors, ongoing monitoring and preparedness are crucial—even when active case numbers appear low. India's Covid-19 case count rises to 4,302 amid variant concerns As of 8.00 am on Wednesday, 4 June, India reported 4,302 active infections, with 276 new cases, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). While these figures seem modest compared to earlier waves, health authorities remain cautious, particularly in states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi, where acute respiratory infections are rising. The ministry has urged states to increase testing, while hospitals are conducting mock drills to assess oxygen plant readiness in case of a sudden spike. New Covid-19 guidelines issued by Indian states for 2025 variant surge Health departments in several states have issued fresh advisories focussed on three areas: Testing and surveillance: States have been asked to boost genome sequencing of influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory infection cases. Preparedness: Hospitals must ensure Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds, ventilators, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits, and oxygen supplies are in place. Vaccination: Although there is no official booster campaign yet, people—especially the elderly and immunocompromised—are encouraged to stay vaccinated. In Maharashtra, district health authorities have been asked to conduct oxygen plant drills, prepare for a rise in respiratory cases, and promote early testing awareness. In Delhi, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has introduced guidelines requiring staff to wear masks, practise hand hygiene, and limit exposure to infected individuals. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said, 'Covid patients are getting hospitalised in Delhi, but there is no need to worry. The Delhi government is alert and hospitals are prepared to deal with any eventuality.' The advisory instructed that all medical equipment—including ventilators, BiPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and PSA units—must be fully functional. In Karnataka, the health department has appealed to the public to remain calm, alert, and cooperative with health protocols. In Odisha, Health Secretary Aswathy S has urged people not to panic and confirmed that all Covid patients are currently stable. She added that the state government is taking all necessary steps to manage the situation. In Arunachal Pradesh, State Surveillance Officer Lobsang Jampa noted that the detected strain appears milder than earlier variants and urged residents to remain calm. ICMR issues updated Covid-19 testing protocols and variant tracking alert The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) continues to support widespread testing and ethical biomedical research. It has updated testing protocols for private laboratories and issued guidelines for the safe collection and transportation of samples. ICMR is also monitoring the public health impact of variants such as NB.1.8.1, JN.1, LF.7.9, and XFG, and emphasises the importance of data-driven policy decisions. Experts advise mask-wearing in crowded spaces as new Covid variants emerge As Covid-19 continues to evolve, experts are advising the public to remain vigilant and consider wearing masks in certain settings. Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO) and Chairperson of the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, said the virus is likely to persist and could surge every six to eight months. She stressed the need for continued adherence to public health protocols, including wearing masks in crowded spaces. The WHO also recommends mask usage as part of a layered strategy to suppress transmission. Proper mask-wearing—covering the nose, mouth, and chin—is essential for effectiveness. Dr Diksha Goyal, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, said masks remain a 'low-cost, high-impact' tool to protect both individuals and communities. 'As the cases are rising, masks should be worn in crowded, enclosed, or poorly ventilated areas, regardless of local case numbers,' she said. Booster vaccine advised in 2025 for vulnerable groups, say health officials If you are elderly, immunocompromised, or have pre-existing conditions, then yes, absolutely. WHO and Indian health authorities both recommend staying updated with boosters as new variants emerge. Covid-19 safety tips for 2025: Masks, hygiene and vaccination still key According to Dr Goyal, simple measures still work: Wear a well-fitted mask in crowded indoor settings Wash your hands frequently Stay updated on local health advisories Avoid unnecessary exposure if you're unwell Get vaccinated or boosted, if eligible If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before getting vaccinated. According to new guidelines from US federal health officials, 'The vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women. The vaccine is not recommended for healthy children.' Covid-19 may no longer dominate headlines, but it is far from over. With evolving variants and slow surges, staying informed and prepared continues to be vital.
