Punjab government provides free heart surgeries to 341 children under RBSK program

In a major step towards ensuring the health and well-being of children, the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has provided free heart surgeries to 341 children suffering from congenital heart disease during the financial year 2024-25 so far, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh announced on Wednesday.

Congenital heart disease is a birth defect that affects the heart or nearby blood vessels, often requiring expensive surgeries that many families cannot afford.

Recognizing this financial burden, the Punjab government has taken the initiative to fully cover the cost of treatment, giving these children a new lease on life.

This effort falls under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), a national program focused on the early detection and treatment of health conditions in children.

Dr. Balbir Singh stated that as of December 2024, the government had spent ₹3.52 crore on these life-saving surgeries, which were conducted at top empaneled hospitals across Punjab.

To ensure the effective implementation of the RBSK program, the Punjab Health Department has deployed mobile health teams throughout the state. Each team consists of four members—two doctors (one male and one female), a nurse, and a pharmacist trained in data management.

“These teams are equipped with essential medical tools, medicines, and vehicles, enabling them to visit government schools and anganwadis regularly to screen children for health issues,” he added.

A key feature of this initiative is the introduction of digital health cards for each child, tracking their medical history, growth, and development. This system ensures continuous monitoring and timely medical intervention, helping children maintain good health.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare in Punjab, Dr. Balbir Singh said, “This initiative is a testament to our government’s dedication to protecting and promoting a healthy childhood for all children in Punjab. We are determined to make our state a model for healthcare excellence, and this achievement is a significant step toward that goal.”