Mobile Public Health Units of under Tata Steel Foundation’s Healthcare Initiative have benefitted in 29 peripheral villages to over 41,000 patients
NARENDRAPUR (India CSR): Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) has significantly impacted healthcare accessibility in Dhenkanal district, Odisha, by deploying Mobile Public Health Units (mPHU) to serve remote villages around the Tata Steel Meramandali plant. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive, doorstep healthcare services to underserved communities.
Introduction to Tata Steel Foundation’s Healthcare Initiative
Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) has been transforming primary healthcare services in the peripheral villages of the Tata Steel Meramandali plant in Dhenkanal district since it started providing service through Mobile Public Health Units (mPHU). Approximately 41,000 patients have been provided with healthcare services last year through these mPHUs. These units have served 29 peripheral villages across seven panchayats in the region, namely Mangalpur, Sibapur, Khadagprasad, Nuagaon, Kusupanga, Nuahata, and Paika Puruna Kote.
Implementation of Mobile Public Health Units
Recognising the need for doorstep primary healthcare facilities in the region, the TSF, committed to holistic community development, had initiated the operation of two Mobile Public Health Units (mPHUs) in 2019.
Objectives and Services of the mPHUs
The mPHUs aim to bring accessible, high-quality primary healthcare to the doorstep of peripheral villages through regular check-ups, screenings and free medications. Staffed with a dedicated team, including MBBS-certified doctor, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and coordinators; they follow a structured schedule with four visits per village every month. These visits include health camps offering check-ups, consultations, and free basic diagnoses and medicines.
Key Facts Table
| Fact Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Organization | Tata Steel Foundation |
| Project | Community Development – Healthcare (Corporate Social Responsibility CSR) |
| Total Patients Served | Approximately 41,000 patients benefited in the last year |
| Villages Covered | 29 peripheral villages across seven panchayats |
| Healthcare Visits | Four structured visits per village per month |
| Staff Composition | Teams include MBBS-certified doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and technicians |
| Services Offered | Health check-ups, screenings, free medications, and basic diagnoses |
| Community Impact | Improved access to quality healthcare, leading to better disease management and health awareness |
| Additional Programs | Health awareness sessions on hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention |
| Local Testimonials | Positive feedback from residents for the convenience and quality of care |
Community Feedback on Healthcare Services
Tutu Sahu, a resident of Asanabani village in Kusupanga Gram Panchayat, shared, “The mobile medical health facility is providing service in our village weekly. This greatly benefits us, granting access to quality medical facilities, check-ups, and diagnoses for effective treatment of diseases and ailments. Since our village lacks basic healthcare facilities, it has been greatly helpful.”
Impact and Future Directions
An effective referral system ensures patients complete follow-up treatment of patients who require critical care. Additionally, the team conducts health awareness sessions on hygiene, sanitation, nutrition, and disease prevention in schools and villages. Prasant Kumar Mishra, a resident of Naraharipur village in Paik Purunakote Gram Panchayat, expressed his gratitude saying, “I’m thankful to Tata Steel Foundation for the weekly visits by their medical team. Their dedicated work spares us from travelling long distances for check-ups. The mobile medical unit comes right to our doorstep, a massive advantage, especially for the elderly, unwell, and underserved villagers.” Since then thousands have been treated by this initiative. These efforts have significantly enhanced health awareness and the adoption of healthier practices, promising a healthier future for these communities.
Conclusion
The Tata Steel Foundation’s mPHU initiative is a cornerstone in the effort to bring high-quality medical services directly to the doorsteps of those in peripheral and underserved areas. Through regular visits and comprehensive health services, TSF is treating immediate healthcare needs and also fostering long-term health improvements and awareness in the community.
(Copyright@IndiaCSR)
