J&K: GMC Srinagar, ECHO India Boost Tribal Communities' Healthcare Access

The Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar and ECHO India on Saturday announced partnering to hold a roundtable discussion on innovative solutions for strengthening the healthcare system for tribal communities.  Important to note that the Healthcare for Tribal Communities in Mountainous Regions of J&K has been challenging. The community members have been vocal and have been flagging the issues regarding the availability of healthcare resources.

The spokesperson at GMC Srinagar told Ground Report that the initiative aims to address unique healthcare challenges faced by tribal people in the region.  He said that the event, hosted at the GMC, brought together dignitaries, policymakers, and healthcare experts to discuss solutions for enhancing healthcare access and resilience in underserved tribal populations.

According to a release issued, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, secretary of the Tribal Affairs Department and Director of the Tribal Research Institute, emphasized the collaborative nature of this endeavour.  He stated that their objective is to create a comprehensive roadmap that addresses the unique healthcare challenges faced by tribal communities in the mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, Bhupinder Kumar, secretary to the Government of the Health & Medical Education Department, highlighted the importance of inclusivity and innovation: 

"This event serves as a platform for meaningful discussions and consultations, where experts converge to shape the future of healthcare for underserved tribal populations”, he said in his address.

On the occasion, Dr. Masood Tanvir, Principal and Dean of Government Medical College Srinagar appreciated ECHO India for their invaluable contribution in organizing a roundtable discussion on tribal health. He said that the initiative is a significant step towards addressing the healthcare needs of tribal communities. Professor (Dr.) SM Mohd. Salim Khan, H.O.D- Community Medicine, GMC Srinagar, emphasized the potential transformative impact of this partnership.

On the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Bhalla, AVP ECHO India, underscored the importance of collaborative consultations and said that through partnership with Government Medical College Srinagar, ECHO India aspires to create a roadmap that blends technology and expertise. 

“This inclusive approach ensures that healthcare solutions are accessible, efficient, and adaptable, ultimately strengthening healthcare access and resilience in tribal communities”, he said.

About ECHO India

According to the statement, ECHO India is a non-profit trust committed to improving the well-being of communities by empowering first-mile professionals through capacity-building initiatives. 

“Our comprehensive approach encompasses healthcare, education, and support for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We collaborate closely with government bodies, healthcare institutions, hospitals, medical colleges, nursing councils, schools, and development sector entities”.

The statement stated that ECHO India's innovative 'Hub and Spoke' Model of capacity building involves a team of experts serving as the hub, mentoring and training the spokes, who are a cohort of learners. 

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