Creating a national network of referral and training centres
“Hi, I’m Shashank. I am 21 years old and live with haemophilia A in Bangalore. Today I am fortunate to be able to access care and pursue my education. But it wasn’t always that way.
For many years my condition remained undiagnosed. When I realised that I was different from other kids, I started distancing myself from my loved ones, avoiding social interactions. I was slowly falling into depression.”
“My life changed when I was introduced to the Haemophilia Society, Bangalore Chapter, and began getting care and treatment at the BMRCI centre. Dr Meera and the staff not only correctly diagnosed and treated my bleeds, but also my mental health. I had multiple counselling sessions to help me figure out what I am best at, and that raised my self-esteem and confidence.
Being able to access quality diagnosis and care made all the difference to me. I hope that in future people with haemophilia will not have to travel great distances to get support. This will help prevent the disability, mental health issues and even premature death that are often associated with bleeding disorders.”
India 2021 highlights
The Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMRCI) is one of seven centres being strengthened as a national referral and training centre. In partnership with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, represented by Dr Tulika Seth, the project team continued to lay the groundwork for standardisation of diagnosis and care throughout India.
- Laboratory equipment procured for 7 national training and referral centres.
- Dialogue ongoing with Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and healthcare professionals to continue strengthening 7 centres as care and treatment hubs through procurement of rehabilitation equipment and creation of dedicated spaces for people with haemophilia.
- Planning meetings to organise masterclasses for haematologists, lab technicians, dentists, nurses and physiotherapists in order to provide complete training of comprehensive care teams.
