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Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Clinics are revolutionizing maternal healthcare, offering free ultrasounds and comprehensive ante-natal care, significantly improving women’s health across the state.
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Main Article
In a significant move to enhance maternal healthcare, the Punjab government has expanded pregnancy-related services at Aam Aadmi Clinics, leading to a remarkable surge in ante-natal care visits within just four months. With over 10,000 pregnant women receiving free ultrasound scans, the clinics are now catering to nearly 20,000 expectant mothers each month. This initiative is aimed at addressing persistent concerns over maternal health indicators, particularly amid a backdrop where Punjab records an alarming 4.3 lakh pregnancies annually.
Government statistics reveal that before this initiative, fewer than 70% of pregnant women received their first ante-natal check-up, and less than 60% completed the full recommended visits. Notably, the maternal mortality ratio in Punjab stands at 90 per one lakh live births, surpassing the national average and underscoring the necessity for enhanced monitoring and timely referrals. The expanded model at Aam Aadmi Clinics now includes a range of comprehensive ante-natal tests—such as blood tests, sugar screenings, thyroid assessments, and even HIV and syphilis testing—facilitating early diagnosis and improved health outcomes for mothers and their newborns.
The introduction of free ultrasound services is particularly revolutionary; doctors now issue referral slips that allow women to undergo necessary scans at about 500 government-empanelled diagnostic centres at no charge. This service alleviates potential financial burdens, as the cost of ultrasounds typically ranges from Rs 800 to Rs 2,000. Officials estimate that this free service alone has relieved expectant mothers of approximately Rs 1 crore in healthcare costs so far. Additionally, the initiative has proven effective in identifying around 5,000 high-risk pregnancies each month, allowing for timely follow-up and referrals to higher medical facilities when needed.
The Aam Aadmi Clinics, which form the backbone of Punjab’s primary healthcare system, boast a total of 881 facilities aimed at improving access to essential services close to home. Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh emphasized that expanding pregnancy care through these clinics is designed to ease the strain on larger hospitals while heightening accessibility to critical healthcare services. As the government continues to refine its approach, the focus remains squarely on enhanced coverage, early detection, and the continuity of care for mothers and their children throughout Punjab.
Short Summary
In summary, the Punjab government’s expansion of pregnancy care services through Aam Aadmi Clinics has significantly improved ante-natal healthcare access. With over 10,000 free ultrasounds provided and a commitment to better maternal health, this initiative stands as a crucial step toward enhancing the well-being of mothers and newborns in the state.
