As a part of the ongoing Project Give-Back and Project Hope initiative, Parmarth Niketan held a free, day-long medical camp today at the Rajkiya Prathmik Shiksha Vidyalaya in Kali ki Dhal, Rishikesh. The team of doctors comprised of a visiting physicians from America Dr. Laura Sobieck, Dr. Michelle Chen and Dr. Tung Nyugen and resident physician Dr. Priya Mohan of Parmarth Niketan.
The camp started with the auspicious lamp-lighting ceremony and the gifting of a sacred water pot, by Dr. Laura Sobieck to the lead social worker, as an expression of our gratitude for facilitating the organization of this camp. During the day, the physician team provided general, primary care to over 200 local patients between the ages one to 80 yrs and free medicines were also distributed. In cases where specialists were needed the doctors advised the patients accordingly along with detailed explanation of their medical condition and the repercussions of postponing special care any further.
Just before closing, Dr. Laura Sobieck spent time with the gathered group of adults and children to address the issues of WASH – water and sanitation, hygiene. She explained to everyone how to inculcate better hygiene habits and why it was important to consume clean water and have proper sanitation. She shared the various diseases and health hazards that arise, especially among children, due to WASH. The villagers were very grateful to the medical team and requested for such camps more frequently.
The visiting doctors from Amrit Davaa World Health are eager to work with GIWA and Project Hope to help improve holistic healthcare of Uttarakhand. The lack of availability of proper medical facilities and health education in the Himalayan regions has motivated these organizations to come together to work with the local communities and the current healthcare infrastructure improve the overall well-being of the Himalayan people.
