The Mega Health and Eye Check-up Camp, organized on 25th February 2023 at Belgachia Dhapa, marked a transformative initiative for the underprivileged communities of the Howrah Municipal Corporation. With the support of Tarasafe International Private Limited, this camp delivered impactful healthcare services to 541 beneficiaries, ranging from infants to the elderly. Here’s a breakdown of the remarkable outcomes:
Health Services Delivered
- Free Medical Check-ups: The camp catered to a total of 541 individuals, including 230 men, 246 women, and 65 children, ensuring access to free medical consultations and essential health services.
- Specialized Care Providers:
- Ophthalmology: Eye check-ups conducted for over 300 beneficiaries, with 146 receiving prescription glasses to correct refractive errors.
- Dermatology: Expert consultations addressed common skin ailments prevalent in the community.
- Dental Care: Oral health check-ups were provided by a dentist to address untreated dental issues.
- Pediatrics: Specialized care focused on addressing the needs of children.
- General Medicine: A general physician offered holistic consultations to address broader health concerns.
Medicines and Spectacles Distribution
- Medicines for All: Two pharmacists distributed free medicines prescribed by the doctors on-site, ensuring immediate relief and follow-up care for diagnosed conditions.
- Spectacles for Vision Correction: Beneficiaries received 146 high-quality spectacles, significantly improving their vision and quality of life.
Community Impact
- Healthcare Access: By bringing quality healthcare services directly to the underserved Belgachia Dhapa area, the camp addressed a critical gap in access to medical facilities for families who cannot afford healthcare services.
- Awareness Creation: The camp emphasized preventive care, promoting better hygiene, dietary practices, and early detection of diseases to ensure long-term health improvements.
- Collaboration with Government: Referral services were strengthened through partnerships with government healthcare providers. Patients requiring advanced care were referred to Calcutta Medical College for further free treatments and surgeries under government schemes.
Beneficiary Feedback
- Beneficiaries expressed immense gratitude for the free services, with many acknowledging that this was the first comprehensive health camp they had attended in the area.
- The distribution of prescription spectacles was particularly appreciated, as it enhanced the day-to-day functionality and independence of the recipients.
- Several beneficiaries and local leaders, including the ward councilor, requested the continuation of such camps to meet the persistent healthcare needs of the community.
Statistical Highlights
- Total Beneficiaries: 541 individuals benefited from the camp.
- Spectacles Distributed: 146 prescription glasses.
- Children Beneficiaries: 65 children received specialized pediatric care.
- Age Demographics:
- 0-18 years: 65 individuals
- 19-59 years: 253 individuals
- 60+ years: 76 individuals
Future Opportunities
The overwhelming response to the camp and the positive feedback has created avenues for expanding healthcare initiatives. The Chairman of the Howrah Municipal Corporation has already requested The We Foundation to conduct 12 camps across 66 wards in the coming financial year, amplifying the reach and impact of such initiatives.
This Mega Health and Eye Camp exemplifies the power of collaboration between CSR, government bodies, and NGOs in transforming the health and well-being of underserved populations. It is a stepping stone toward a healthier and more informed community, laying the foundation for sustainable health outcomes.