Free healthcare facilities for Mumbaikars from October 2: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde

Mumbai: From October 2, Mumbaikars will get free healthcare through Hinduhriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Hospital and Polyclinics, chief minister Eknath Shinde said on Tuesday.

Shinde said that about 227 health centres or polyclinics will be started in Mumbai and 50 health centres will be launched in the first phase. Around 139 medical tests and diagnostic services, including x-ray, ultrasound and ECG will be provided free of charge by these centres.

BMC officials said the polyclinics will be open from 7 am to 10 pm in two shifts so those who are employed can visit as well. While dispensaries provide treatment for fever, malaria, dengue and other ailments, the services of specialised consultants such as ENT, ophthalmology, paediatrics and gynaecology, will be added to these polyclinics called Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray polyclinics.

After taking a review meeting of the BMC’s health department, Shinde directed that the number of mobile medical units be increased for the health of the citizens in the slum areas and mobile van services be launched for mammography.

Officials said at present the work of these clinics has been completed at 50 places and 227 clinics will be set up in the eastern and western suburbs. There will be 34 polyclinics in it. “Through it, the services of specialists will be available. The clinic will be operated in two formats, portacabin and concrete construction. Each clinic will be started as one for 25,000-30,000 people. The timing of this clinic is going to be in two sessions according to the convenience of patients from 7 am to 2 pm and 3 pm to 10 pm. Each clinic will have a manpower of one MBBS doctor, a nurse, a pharmacist, and multi-purpose workers. The polyclinic will cater to a population of 2.5-3 lakh,” an official said. In the BMC budget 2022-23, ₹400 crore was earmarked for upgrade of dispensaries.