SMHRC Launches Free Month-Long Post-COVID Recovery Camp for Survivors
In response to growing concerns about post-COVID complications, Shalinitai Meghe Hospital and Research Centre (SMHRC), a 1020-bed facility, is organizing a unique month-long free follow-up camp throughout October 2024. This initiative is designed to support the recovery of patients who were admitted at SMHRC during the peak of the pandemic and are now facing lingering post-COVID health issues, particularly respiratory complications. As part of the effort to address public concerns, SMHRC recently held a free consultancy camp, featuring a talk by renowned pulmonologist Dr. Akhil Bindra from Cleveland, USA, to answer queries and alleviate fears.
The ongoing camp, which began on October 1, 2024, offers a variety of free services to patients who were treated for COVID at SMHRC. These services include medical consultations, Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) as needed, and the provision of free spirometers to those in need. Common post-COVID symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, and reduced lung capacity make these evaluations critical for rehabilitation and improving patients’ quality of life.
The camp is led by the Respiratory Medicine Department at SMHRC, under the leadership of Dr. Sumer Choudhary, Senior Pulmonologist, and supported by a team of experienced specialists. The department boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a bronchoscopy division, PFT services, and dedicated negative pressure wards, all staffed by trained medical and paramedical professionals. The camp aims to identify patients who may need more intensive therapy or further medical intervention.
Dr. Sumer Choudhary emphasized, “The goal of this camp is to ensure that all post-COVID-19 SMHRC patients receive the necessary care and monitoring, as post-COVID conditions have a wide range of impacts. By offering these services free of charge, we hope to reach patients who might not have access to specialized care or follow-up treatments. We are also providing free spirometers to those in need, helping them continue physiotherapy at home.”
Dr. Naresh Gill, Deputy Director of Community Services, noted that this initiative is part of a broader commitment to public health and long-term well-being of COVID-19 survivors from SMHRC.
Dr. Anup Marar, Director of SMHRC, added, “This free follow-up camp reflects our hospital’s dedication to the holistic care of COVID-19 survivors. We are committed to providing the necessary tools and medical interventions to support their full recovery and improve their quality of life.”
Patients are encouraged to pre-register to streamline the process and minimize waiting times. Walk-in patients will also be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis. The camp runs on weekdays during regular OPD hours throughout October, serving a maximum of 50 patients per day. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled based on the patient’s medical history and condition. SMHRC urges all eligible patients to take advantage of this free service and work closely with the Respiratory Medicine Department to ensure optimal post-COVID recovery.
The Awareness & Community Divisions, led by Shri. Chaitanya Meghe, Shri. Shivam Gupta, and Ms. Bhagyashree, are working under the guidance of Dr. Vasant Gawande, Chief Medical Superintendent, to make this initiative a success.