AIIMS-Nagpur doctors keep ‘digital eye' on newborns in Melghat
2
3
Nagpur: Melghat, a forested area in Amravati district known for its scenic beauty, has long struggled with grim statistics when it comes to child health. Difficult terrain, poor access and limited trained staff contributed to a history of high infant mortality.
But the tide is turning. Now, newborns from remote tribal areas are being saved under an initiative that doesn't even require physical presence of doctors. The result? A 50% reduction in neonatal mortality, fewer deaths from sepsis, and dramatically better outcomes for very low birth weight babies.
Under this initiative, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)-Nagpur has pioneered a cutting-edge Tele-Special Newborn Care Unit (Tele-SNCU), set up at the sub-district hospital in Dharni, which connects some of the country's most vulnerable infants with some of its best medical minds through real-time virtual care.
Led by neonatologist Dr Nishant Banait of AIIMS-Nagpur and supported by global health organisation PATH, the Tele-SNCU works on a hub-and-spoke telemedicine model. Neonatal specialists at AIIMS-Nagpur conduct virtual rounds using 360-degree cameras, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled devices, and live dashboards to guide and train local health staff.
"This model marks a true paradigm shift in how we deliver care to newborns," said Dr Banait and added, "By combining cutting-edge digital tools with dedicated clinical care, we are not only saving lives but also securing healthier futures for our most vulnerable patients."
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Farmer Is Tired Of People Illegally Parking On His Land And Takes Revenge
Novelodge
Undo
Buoyed by the success in Dharni, AIIMS-Nagpur expanded the initiative to tribal districts like Gadchiroli and Nandurbar, where the team completed detailed assessments of existing newborn care units and launched intensive training programmes for local healthcare providers.
Recognising the initiative's transformative impact, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India, spotlighted AIIMS-Nagpur's Tele-SNCU as one of the "best practices" at a national Conclave of Good Practices held recently.
The event, hosted at AIIMS-Nagpur, saw participation from executive directors of AIIMS institutions across the country. "This is not just about treating sick newborns — it's about reimagining healthcare equity in India," said Dr PP Joshi, executive director of AIIMS-Nagpur.
"Digital innovations are bridging gaps in access, enabling early diagnosis, and bringing quality healthcare to some of the most underserved communities.
Leveraging technology to address health disparities in tribal populations is not just beneficial, it is transformative."
AIIMS-Nagpur's commitment to underserved communities is not limited to neonatology. In Gadchiroli, a NIDAN Kendra is being established to screen pregnant women for sickle cell disease and thalassaemia, and test newborns for five key metabolic disorders — potentially a game-changer for genetic disease prevention in tribal regions.
In another large-scale success, the Community Medicine Department led by Dr Kalaiselvi S under Dr Pradeep Deshmukh carried out a massive non-communicable disease (NCD) screening drive in Ramtek block, covering 60 villages and screening over 5,000 people. Around 1,750 cases of diabetes and hypertension were detected, with 900 patients opting to shift from private to govt healthcare services — a sign of growing public trust in govt health delivery.
In a country where tribal and rural health outcomes often lag far behind urban centres, AIIMS Nagpur's integrated, tech-driven, and outcome-oriented model offers a replicable blueprint for inclusive care.
The fusion of telemedicine with grassroots empowerment is showing that distance need not be a death sentence for India's newborns. The initiative stands not just as a beacon of medical excellence, but as a symbol of what public health systems can achieve when innovation, compassion, and equity go hand in hand.
# A MODEL WORTH REPLICATING
- The sub-district hospital at Dharni is located 144 km away from Amravati, surrounded by hills and forests
- Despite having an SNCU at Dharni, is known for a high maternal mortality rate and infant mortality rate (IMR) in Maharashtra
- AIIMS' Tele-SNCU is proving to be a good model and will be scaled up soon
- AIIMS provides technical and clinical knowledge support
- Telemedicine support provided for day-to-day clinical matters
- Hands-on training provided to medical and nursing staff
- Doctors from AIIMS pay regular visits to this SNCU
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
37 minutes ago
- Time of India
Prevention tips for dengue and chikungunya: How to protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases
Dengue and chikungunya are viral infections spread mainly by the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Both illnesses share similar symptoms, including high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, rash, and fatigue. If left untreated or unmanaged, these diseases can cause serious health complications. With a growing number of cases worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, taking preventive measures is essential. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites and reducing mosquito breeding sites can significantly lower the risk of infection. Understanding how these viruses spread and knowing effective prevention tips can help safeguard your health and that of your community. Understanding dengue and chikungunya and tips for prevention Both dengue and chikungunya are caused by viruses spread through mosquito bites. The Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes are the primary vectors. These mosquitoes are most active during early morning and late afternoon, making these times particularly risky for transmission. While there is no specific antiviral treatment or universal vaccine available for chikungunya, some vaccines for dengue exist but are limited in availability and application. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pensioners Can Buy These Electric Cars in Malaysia - See Prices Here! Electric Cars | Search Ads Search Now Undo Therefore, preventing mosquito bites remains the most effective defense. 1. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly check and empty water from: Flower pots, vases, and plant trays Water storage containers Old tires, buckets, and discarded containers Roof gutters and drains Ensure that water storage is covered tightly to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. 2. Use mosquito repellents Apply mosquito repellents on exposed skin and clothing, especially during peak mosquito activity times. Always follow product instructions for safe use, especially for children and pregnant women. 3. Wear protective clothing When outdoors, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes to minimize skin exposure. Clothing treated with permethrin insecticide provides added protection. 4. Install mosquito nets and screens Use mosquito nets while sleeping, especially if you live in or visit areas with high mosquito activity. Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out of indoor spaces. 5. Use mosquito traps and insecticides Deploy mosquito traps and insecticides safely around the home to reduce mosquito populations. Fogging and indoor insecticide sprays can be effective during outbreaks but should be used judiciously. 6. Community clean-up drives Engage with community initiatives to clean up public spaces, remove trash, and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. Collective efforts significantly reduce mosquito populations and disease transmission. 7. Avoid peak mosquito hours Limit outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when Aedes mosquitoes are most active. 8. Maintain personal and environmental hygiene Keep your surroundings clean and dry. Avoid clutter that can collect water, and regularly clean water storage tanks and containers. 9. Stay informed Stay updated on local dengue and chikungunya outbreaks through public health advisories. Also read | Chikungunya symptoms that might go unnoticed
News18
an hour ago
- News18
President Murmu attends first convocation of AIIMS-Kalyani
Kolkata, Jul 30 (PTI) President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday attended the first convocation of AIIMS-Kalyani in Nadia district of West Bengal. Murmu was the chief guest at the function, which was also attended by Governor C V Ananda Bose, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State for Health Chandrima Bhattacharya, and Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur. The convocation marked the graduation of the first MBBS batch of the institute, admitted in 2019, along with Post-Doctoral Certificate Course (PDCC) scholars. A total of 48 MBBS students and nine PDCC students received their degrees. PTI SCH ACD Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Skipping oral hygiene? The hidden link between your mouth and gut problems
Brushing your teeth may seem like a minor part of your day, but neglecting oral hygiene can have surprisingly serious consequences, starting with your gut. According to studies, poor dental care doesn't just cause cavities or bad breath; it may also disrupt your gut microbiome, trigger chronic inflammation, and contribute to digestive disorders. The mouth and gut are closely connected through what scientists refer to as the oral–gut axis. Harmful bacteria from an unclean mouth can travel to the gut, upsetting the balance of good microbes and negatively impacting your digestion, immunity, and overall health. How poor oral hygiene silently damages your gut health Your mouth and gut are more closely connected than you might realise. Emerging research highlights a strong relationship between oral hygiene and gut health, known as the oral–gut axis. When you neglect your oral care routine, harmful bacteria in the mouth, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, begin to thrive. While these bacteria are primarily linked to gum disease, studies now show they can survive stomach acid and reach the gut, where they disturb the natural balance of beneficial microbes. Why you should visit your dentist every 6 months This microbial imbalance doesn't just affect digestion; it can trigger a chain reaction of health issues, including: Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract A weakened gut lining, increasing the risk of leaky gut syndrome Gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Reduced nutrient absorption, weakening immunity and lowering energy levels The reverse effect: Gut imbalance and its impact on oral health Just as oral health influences the gut, an unhealthy gut can also cause problems in the mouth. A disrupted gut microbiome may contribute to: Recurring oral infections Mouth ulcers Inflammation and bleeding of the gums Increased risk of tooth decay Digestive issues such as acid reflux can also erode tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and cavities. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Seniors in the Philippines Can Enjoy Affordable Private Health Insurance! (See List) Health Insurance | Search Ads Search Now Undo by Taboola by Taboola Furthermore, imbalanced gut flora can weaken the immune system, making the mouth more vulnerable to infections and slower to heal. What poor oral hygiene can do to your heart, brain, and overall health The implications of poor oral health stretch far beyond the gut. Clinical studies and epidemiological evidence have found strong links between poor oral hygiene and several serious health conditions, including: Cardiovascular diseases: Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to arterial inflammation, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Diabetes: Gum disease can make blood sugar levels harder to control, and high blood sugar can worsen oral infections. Respiratory infections: Inhaling harmful oral bacteria can lead to lung infections, especially in the elderly. Neurodegenerative diseases: Chronic inflammation triggered by oral pathogens has been associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammatory responses linked to gum disease may worsen joint inflammation. Pregnancy complications: Poor oral health during pregnancy has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. What you can do to protect your oral and gut health You can protect your gut and your overall health by adopting a consistent oral hygiene routine. Brush twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes. Floss daily: This helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Limit sugar and acidic foods: These promote the growth of harmful oral bacteria. Drink plenty of water: Hydration supports saliva production, which naturally cleans the mouth. Visit your dentist regularly: Early signs of gum disease or decay are easier to treat when caught early. Support your gut with a balanced diet: Include fibre-rich fruits and vegetables and probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, and limit ultra-processed foods. The connection between your mouth and gut is more important than ever, especially as science continues to uncover how microbes influence everything from digestion to immunity and chronic disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is not just about preventing cavities; it's a vital step in supporting gut health and safeguarding your long-term wellbeing. So, the next time you're tempted to skip brushing at night or delay that dentist appointment, remember: your gut, and your whole body, may be paying the price. Also Read: Do these 5 things before bed to help control high blood pressure
