Apollo Telehealth reactivates Manipur's Borobeka PHC under PPP programme

Manipur: The recent conflicts in Manipur have caused a significant economic downturn and business disruption, leading to a record-breaking 67,000 individuals being displaced due to ethnic conflict, according to a report. Particularly concerning is the displacement of many healthcare professionals, especially in the hill districts affected by the crisis. Recognising the critical need to ensure continued access to healthcare services in affected areas, Justice Gita Mittal, Chairperson, Supreme Court-appointed Committee on Relief and Rehabilitation in Manipur, identified the necessity to operationalise several affected health facilities through electronic modes. In line with this strategy, Apollo Telehealth was selected to oversee the reactivation of the Borobeka Primary Health Centre (PHC) under a public-private partnership programme.

The Borobeka area, characterised by its isolation and challenging road conditions, presents significant obstacles to accessing timely medical care and emergency services. With the nearest referral hospital located at least 90 minutes away in Jiribam, residents face prolonged treatment and exacerbated health concerns due to these challenges. Fortunately, the collaboration with Apollo Telehealth signifies a proactive effort to restore essential healthcare services to communities affected by recent unrest.

Justice Mittal said, "The collaboration with Apollo Telehealth signifies a proactive approach towards reinstating vital healthcare services for communities affected by recent turmoil. By harnessing their expertise and resources, our aim is to swiftly restore operations at Borobeka PHC, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. This initiative underscores the unwavering commitment of the state government to prioritise the health and well-being of all citizens, even amidst challenging circumstances. We remain steadfast in implementing effective measures to address the evolving needs of our communities and restore normalcy across the state."

Vikram Thaploo, CEO-TeleHealth, Apollo Hospitals, said, "We are deeply grateful to the Government of Manipur for entrusting us with this vital project. Since the signing of the memorandum of understanding on March 15, 2024, our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to transform the Borobeka Primary Health Centre. Despite facing daunting challenges, including recent communal unrest and adverse weather conditions, Apollo's unwavering commitment prevailed. Today, as we commemorate our presence in Manipur, we celebrate the resilience and determination that propelled us forward."

Apollo Telehealth spearheaded the installation of essential medical and IT infrastructure, complemented by a proficient team of trained staff. Dedicated high-speed internet connectivity was established to facilitate seamless telemedicine services. Over the course of 30 days of rigorous effort, the primary healthcare centre (PHC) underwent a comprehensive renovation to cater to the needs of the local community. Presently, the PHC boasts a skilled workforce, including an MBBS doctor, nurses, lab technicians, and MPHWS professionals. It offers specialised teleconsultations encompassing various fields such as OB/GYN, cardiology, orthopaedics, and nephrology, among others.

Furthermore, the PHC is fully equipped to execute national health mission programmes addressing NCD, ANC/PNC, mental healthcare, and more. Patients can avail consultations with over 15 specialist doctors from across India through telemedicine services accessible directly from Borobeka. The attending doctors conduct thorough examinations, diagnose primary health conditions, and prescribe quality medicines as necessary. Additionally, the PHC features a state-of-the-art laboratory offering over 35 different tests to cater to diverse medical needs.