Belthangady: In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare access in remote areas, social activist and philanthropist Dr. Tejaswini Ananth Kumar, Managing Trustee of Adamya Chethana Foundation, Bengaluru, will inaugurate a state-of-the-art Emergency Centre at Sri Krishna Hospital, Kakkinje, Belthangady Taluk, on Saturday, December 7. The new facility, a collaboration with KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, aims to provide critical medical care in emergencies such as road accidents, agricultural incidents, and wildlife attacks.
Delivering healthcare to remote regions
Speaking at a press meet, Dr. Murali Krishna Irwathraya, Managing Director of Sri Krishna Hospital, highlighted the pressing need for emergency medical services in the hilly Western Ghats region. “Our guiding principle has always been ‘Reaching the Unreached.’ Since 1999, we have been committed to delivering modern healthcare to rural populations. This Emergency Centre represents the first such initiative in the district to provide immediate medical care for emergencies,” he said.
Dr. Irwathraya added that the centre will address critical issues faced by residents in this underdeveloped region, where accessing healthcare during emergencies has been challenging due to inadequate infrastructure. “With the increasing number of road accidents, wildlife encounters, and other emergencies in areas like Charmadi Ghat, we recognised the urgent need for a dedicated emergency facility. This centre will also facilitate the quick transport of patients to KMC Hospital in Mangaluru using advanced ambulance services,” he stated.
Inspiration from Dr. Tejaswini Ananth Kumar
Dr. Tejaswini Ananth Kumar, renowned for her dedication to social causes, was commended for her leadership and vision. “Dr. Tejaswini is a beacon of inspiration through her work in mid-day meal programmes, environmental conservation, promoting culture and heritage, and advocating for a plastic-free society. Her involvement in this project adds immense value,” Dr. Irwathraya remarked.
Challenges faced by rural communities
Residents in the foothills and upper regions of the Western Ghats have long struggled to receive timely medical care. Emergencies like road accidents, agricultural injuries, and even suicide attempts often go unattended due to the lack of trauma centres. “This initiative is a response to the difficulties I have witnessed during my two decades of service in this region. It is our hope that this Emergency Centre will bridge the gap in healthcare services,” Dr. Irwathraya emphasised.
Dignitaries to grace the event
The inauguration ceremony will be presided over by Hon. Deputy Chairman of the State Legislative Council Shri M.K. Pranesh. Other esteemed guests include Belthangady MLA Shri Harish Poonja, MLC Shri Kishore Kumar Bottyadi, former MLC Shri K. Harish Kumar, KMC Hospital’s Regional COO Shri Sagir Siddiqui, and Head of Emergency Medicine at KMC Hospital Dr. Jeedhu Radhakrishnan.
About the Sri Krishna Hospital
Sri Krishna Hospital has been a crucial healthcare provider in the region, offering emergency care for decades. However, the new centre will significantly enhance its ability to handle severe emergencies. With modern equipment and a dedicated team, the hospital is now poised to deliver life-saving care to the most vulnerable communities.
Dr. Vandana Irwathraya, Medical Director of Sri Krishna Hospital, and Rakesh, PRO of KMC Hospital, were also present at the press meet.
This collaborative effort between Sri Krishna Hospital and KMC Hospital is a testament to the shared commitment to improving healthcare access for all. The new Emergency Centre is set to be a lifeline for the residents of Belthangady Taluk and beyond.
