Team Goemkarponn
BAMBOLIM: Goa is set to become the first state in the country to roll out the State Care Programme, a landmark doorstep healthcare initiative that will deliver essential medical services directly to patients’ homes, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane announced on Monday.
The programme will provide home-based physiotherapy, palliative care, geriatric care, stroke rehabilitation support, and transport facilities for patients undergoing dialysis and chemotherapy. The initiative aims to make quality healthcare more accessible, particularly for senior citizens, bedridden patients, and those requiring long-term medical care.
The announcement was made during the flagging-off ceremony of 19 new healthcare vehicles at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC), Bambolim. The vehicles were donated by NTPC Limited under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Goa, and the Goa CSR Authority.
The event was attended by Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Shripad Naik, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, senior government officials, and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Rane said the addition of the new healthcare vehicles would significantly enhance Goa’s emergency medical response system while improving access to healthcare services across the State. He said the government is committed to expanding key healthcare initiatives, including the STEMI programme, neonatal emergency services, and the newly launched State Care Programme, to ensure timely and efficient medical assistance reaches every citizen.
Highlighting the importance of emergency medical services, the Health Minister described the 108 ambulance service as a critical life-saving network and stressed that reducing response time remains a priority. He said the government is further strengthening emergency healthcare by introducing neonatal ambulances, upgrading emergency medical services, and investing in healthcare infrastructure.
Rane also lauded Union Minister Shripad Naik for his contribution to Goa’s healthcare and medical education sectors. He thanked Naik for facilitating the addition of 50 MBBS seats at Goa Medical College, stating that the move would create greater opportunities for aspiring doctors from the State. He described Naik as a dedicated and accessible leader whose efforts have significantly contributed to Goa’s healthcare development.
