Amidst the chaos that the pandemic has stirred, alumni from the 1992 batch of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) have joined forces to form the Karnataka COVID Volunteers Team. It is an effort to tackle the tough situation that is presented to us in these unprecedented times.
With over 100 doctors residing in different parts of the world on board, the team has been providing free teleconsultation, medicines, pulse oximeters and training to volunteers. Since its genesis over a month ago, the team has gathered 220 volunteers and receives calls daily with people expressing their interest to serve the community.
Dr H. V. Vasu, a BMCRI alumnus, initiated the volunteer group, and the team calls for volunteers from across the state to join the cause and band together in social consciousness. The team liaises with volunteers, who are provided with adequate training on COVID protocols and understanding symptoms. The volunteers are also armed with a kit consisting of 5 face shields, 5 N95 or triple-layer masks, 5 pairs of gloves, an infrared thermometer, a pulse oximeter and one litre of hand sanitiser. Once the volunteers are trained, they go off to villages and towns to spread awareness and recognise symptoms amongst the residents.
“We aim to create awareness on the spread of the virus and its prevention, especially in rural areas where villagers might not have access to enough healthcare. People in these areas are already dealing with unemployment and financial stress. We are doing this to help the people in such areas,” said Murthy, who is in charge of rural outreach for the volunteer team.
If a resident is found COVID – positive, the volunteers provide the patient with a toll-free number that enables the core volunteer team to connect the patient to a doctor. The patients then consult an available doctor who guides them through treatment and care. The patients are also provided with a kit that consists of several medicines including paracetamol, cough syrup, ORS solution, essential vitamins, amongst many others. The doctors follow up with the patient and advise them on home care and diet until their recovery.
The team is currently targeting people all over Karnataka, including all the districts, town and cities. The team is funded by the ‘92 batch alumni of BMCRI, along with local fundraising and donations.
“We have received over 250 calls from people hailing from Bengaluru and Mysuru expressing their willingness to become volunteers. We are happy with the turnout of people willing to help people in need.” Considering the magnitude of the situation, a greater impact is created when citizens rally together to combat the situation at hand.
