Tripura 22 Jan, 2025: A young girl from Churaibari Ravi Das Para in North Tripura has successfully undergone a free cardiac surgery under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) initiative. The program, aimed at addressing congenital defects and developmental disabilities among children, enabled the child to lead a healthier life.
The girl was diagnosed with a heart defect (hole in the heart) just a month after her birth. Although doctors initially advised surgery at an out-of-state private hospital, her family could not proceed due to financial constraints. However, during a routine screening on March 18, 2021, by the health workers of the Kadam Tala Social Health Center’s RBSK unit, her condition was identified. The health workers immediately initiated the process to provide free advanced medical care under the program.
On July 5, 2024, the girl underwent an echocardiography test at IGM Hospital, Agartala, which confirmed the heart defect. With the assistance of the National Health Mission, Tripura, she was referred to Apollo Children’s Hospital, Chennai, for surgery. On July 24, 2024, the surgery was successfully performed free of cost, and the child returned home in good health.
Dr. Niladri Sekhar Chatterjee, the RBSK doctor overseeing the case, along with the health workers, is closely monitoring the child’s recovery. The child is now leading a normal and healthy life, bringing immense relief and happiness to her family.
The family expressed gratitude towards the health department and the medical team for providing free, life-saving treatment. The Family Welfare and Preventive Medicine Department of Tripura shared this news through an official press release, emphasizing the program’s success in ensuring healthcare for children in need.
