Ahmedabad: 150 doctors to be available on call during Diwali week

Considering Diwali festivities, the onset of winter and Covid-19 cases, more than 150 doctors will be available 'On Call' for medical emergencies from November 14 to 19. This was announced by Ahmedabad Medical Association (AMA) and Ahmedabad Family Physicians Association (AFPA) which has been carrying out the practice for the past 10 years.

"Even minor ailments can be quite distressing during Diwali. This year again illnesses like swine flu, chikungunya, malaria and dengue apart from Covid-19 are at their peak," said Dr Kirit Gadhavi, President of AMA.

"Therefore, we have arranged 15 coordinators (doctors) who will assist people from 7 am to 10 pm so they can get the right treatment at the right time," he added. AMA has also given a list of vacant Covid beds in private hospitals on their website. "Details of AMC's Covid testing booths in different areas will also be given out over the telephone for those seeking guidance," said Pragnesh Vachharajani, AFPA secretary.

AMA website will feature the central helpline number and list of doctors present in the city during the holidays. AMA will also coordinate with EMRI 108 and city hospitals.

Meanwhile, AHNA has set up a 24-hour helpline - 079-26403333 a nd 079-26409999 - so that citizens can call for any kind of medical emergency service and seek details about availability of Covid-19 beds. "Android users can download the AHNA app to access the same details," said Bharat Gadhvi, AHNA president. The association has asked citizens to visit their website to access list of all member-healthcare facilities from November 14 to 21.