Indore (Madhya Pradesh): A study by IIM Indore has identified a successful and potentially scalable model for providing free paediatric cardiac care to underserved children in India.
The research, led by Prof Bhavin J Shah (IIM Indore) and Prof Arvind Shroff (IIM Lucknow), highlights a holistic healthcare initiative that not only delivers lifesaving surgeries but also offers comprehensive support to families at no cost.
The study suggests that partnerships with philanthropists, government support and public-private collaborations may be key to sustaining and expanding affordable paediatric cardiac care in India and also emphasizes the crucial role of local communities in building trust and ensuring long-term success.
Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects nearly 300,000 newborns annually, yet fewer than 15 per cent receive the necessary treatment. India accounts for almost 46 per cent of global CHD cases and faces significant challenges in providing accessible and affordable care.
The study highlighted a unique healthcare model offering free paediatric cardiac treatment to underserved families while the initiative goes beyond surgical care, providing accommodation, nutritious meals and post-operative support to ease the burden on families. Although the model has successfully treated thousands of children, its scalability remains a concern.
The study identifies sustainable funding, operational efficiency and infrastructure expansion as critical factors for growth. Researchers suggest that integrating government initiatives with private sector support can create a stable financial framework for such programmes.
Additionally, philanthropic contributions and corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding can help bridge financial gaps. Community involvement is another key aspect of the study’s findings. Engaging local volunteers, increasing awareness about CHD and fostering relationships with community leaders can enhance trust and participation.
These steps can ensure long-term sustainability and greater outreach. As India continues to grapple with the burden of CHD, this study provides a roadmap for expanding life-saving paediatric care. Strengthening collaborations and ensuring sustained funding can make quality treatment accessible to thousands more children, ultimately reducing infant mortality and improving public health outcomes, the study says.
