Private institutions must also support people in need of medical attention

The Union and State governments provided support in several ways to the needy people, but private institutions should also extend help, especially to those requiring medical assistance, said C.P. Rajkumar, Managing Director, Nalam Multispeciality Hospital, here on Saturday.

Speaking at a function to honour Inspector General of Police V. Balakrishnan and neurologist S. Meenakshisundaram with C. Palaniappan Memorial Award for their contribution to society and Nalam Kappom medical adoption of Type-1 diabetic children, he said the governments implemented numerous welfare programmes, but the timely help by a private hospital or a doctor in the neighbourhood to the people in need would go a long way in safeguarding their lives.

Since 2008, the hospital had adopted 20 children with Type 1 diabetes and cured seven among them, who were now well-placed in different professions. The objective was to diagnose the condition at an early stage and start treatment, which had shown positive results, Dr. Rajkumar.

Hatsun Food chairman R.G. Chandramohan, a Padmashri awardee who presented the award, hailed the role of medical professionals and their services to the people. He stressed the importance of patients, rich or poor, receiving timely attention, which would help in their speedy recovery and prevent unnecessary complications.

Theni Collector Ranjeet Singh said the State, through the Health and Family Welfare Department, implemented several programmes for different age groups. Children were diagnosed in health camps and experts treated them for illnesses and deficiencies.

In his speech, Mr. Balakrishnan, who served as Superintendent of Police in Theni about 14 years ago, said many people from different walks of life in the district were still in touch with him. He recalled the works done with the support of the public when he was the SP.

Theni SP Bhukya Sneha Priya appreciated Dr. Meenakshi Sundaram for his compassionate care and presented the award.

Officials from the Forest Department, including Vivek Kumar and Saicharan, offered felicitation.