Punjab launches 10 mobile medical units to enhance rural healthcare

In a significant step toward improving healthcare accessibility in Punjab, particularly in rural and underserved regions, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh flagged off 10 Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) from Punjab Bhawan on Monday.

Accompanied by Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO and MLAs from Mansa and Bathinda districts, he emphasized the state government's commitment to delivering essential medical services to remote areas.

Launched in collaboration with The Hans Foundation, these fully-equipped mobile medical vans have been allocated to Mansa and Bathinda districts.

"These MMUs will eliminate the need for people to travel long distances for medical care, ensuring that quality healthcare is available right at their doorstep," said Dr. Balbir Singh.

Each MMU will visit two villages daily, providing free medical consultations with MBBS doctors, 40 types of diagnostic tests, 220 types of free medicines, specialized health awareness camps, and home visits for patients unable to reach healthcare facilities.

The Health Minister lauded The Hans Foundation and other NGOs as "angel investors" for their contributions to Punjab’s healthcare system.

Currently, Punjab has 66 operational MMUs, including 51 supported by The Hans Foundation, 13 under the National Health Mission (NHM), one sponsored by ICICI Bank, and another run by the NGO "Doctors for You."

From April 2024 to January 2025, these units have treated 4.40 lakh patients through OPD services and conducted 1.39 lakh diagnostic tests.

Dr. Balbir Singh also highlighted the success of Aam Aadmi Clinics, which have benefited over 2.86 crore people, saving Punjabis more than ₹1,500 crore in medical expenses. These mobile units further strengthen healthcare outreach by bringing medical services directly to people's doorsteps.

The flag-off ceremony witnessed the presence of several MLAs, including Budhlada MLA Principal Budh Ram, Bhucho Mandi MLA Master Jagseer Singh, Sardulgarh MLA Gurpreet Singh Banawali, Rampura Phul MLA Balkar Singh Sidhu, Bathinda Urban MLA Jagroop Singh Gill, Bathinda Rural MLA Amit Rattan Kotfatta, and Mansa MLA Vijay Singla.

Also present were Principal Secretary of Health Kumar Rahul, Director of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Director of Family Welfare Dr. Jasminder, Assistant Director Dr. Rajesh Bhaskar, and representatives from The Hans Foundation.