Health

Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital to Host Myopia & Digital Eye Strain Patient Summit 2025 in January

Chennai, December 23, 2024: Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital is all set to organise the Myopia & Digital Eye Strain Patient Summit 2025, in Chennai on January 4, 2025. The summit will highlight the current eye health challenges in today’s screen-dominated world, offering practical solutions for patients, caregivers, IT professionals, and anyone exposed to prolonged digital screen use. For registration, patients can visit https://www.dragarwal.com/myopia-patient-summit/ or contact 95949 01868.

The summit will feature keynote speeches by renowned eye health experts on the advancements and strategies for managing myopia and digital eye strain; vision screenings and dry eye evaluations for the participants. There will also be interactive panel discussions with leading specialists.

Talking about the summit, Dr. Ashvin Agarwal, Chief Clinical Officer, Dr Agarwals Eye hospital, said, “We are excited to host the Myopia & Digital Eye Strain Patient Summit 2025 in Chennai. This initiative is dedicated to addressing the growing challenges posed by prolonged screen time and its impact on eye health. Through this summit, we aim to empower individuals with the latest knowledge, practical prevention strategies, and effective care tips to manage myopia and digital eye strain. It’s an opportunity for the patients to connect with caregivers, get their guidance for vision health.

Dr. S. Soundari, Regional Head – Clinical services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Chennai commented: “Myopia and digital eye strain continue to rise at alarming rates. Myopia prevalence in urban India has surged—from 4.44% in 1999 to 21.15% in 2019, with projections indicating a staggering 48.14% by 2050. Similarly, digital eye strain (DES) affects 50%–60% of children in India, driven by increased screen time; this is according to a report in the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, a Lippincott Journal. This summit offers actionable insights and strategies for managing these growing challenges. Attendees will benefit from expert advice tailored for all age groups. They can engage in personalized Q&A sessions with leading ophthalmologists, and participate in on-site vision screenings, including dry eye assessments.”

In her comments, Dr. Kaladevi Satish, Zonal Head – Clinical services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Chennai said Via this summit, the participants will get a chance to learn practical and effective eye exercises to combat digital eye strain. Beyond physical eye health, the summit addresses the psychosocial impacts of refractive errors, offering guidance to help individuals cope emotionally and socially. Additionally, attendees will discover new optical technologies, including myopia control lenses tailored for modern lifestyles and innovative designs for better vision management.

Dr. Ramya Sampath, Regional Head – Clinical services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Chennai stated: “The summit offers a comprehensive platform for the public to understand and manage eye health challenges in the digital age. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of myopia, including its causes, progression, and long-term impact, while receiving guidance on selecting the right corrective options, such as glasses and contact lenses, and understanding their appropriate use. For those considering advanced solutions, the summit will explore laser vision correction procedures and their benefits.”

Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals Hosts Cardiac Carnival 2024 Chennai,

December 2024: Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals hosted the Cardiac Carnival 2024, a community-driven initiative aimed at raising awareness about heart health and promoting proactive measures against cardiac diseases. The carnival held today at Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals, Velappanchavadi facility, witnessed an overwhelming response from the community, with hundreds of attendees engaging in activities focused on education, awareness, and innovation in cardiac care.


The highlight of the event was the Launch of the Centre of Excellence in Cardiology a State-of -the-art Cath Lab facilities which facilitates a comprehensive approach to cardiac diagnosis, treatment planning, procedures, and follow-up care, reinforcing Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals’ commitment to cutting-edge heart healthcare solutions.
Attendees also benefitted from life-saving Basic Life Support (BLS) training sessions, complete with free certification, equipping them with essential skills to respond to cardiac emergencies effectively.
A series of expert talks by prominent medical professionals provided valuable insights into heart health. Speakers included Dr. Sriram (Sr. Consultant & Head of Department of Cardiology), Dr. P. Narendhiran (Deputy Head Department of Cardiology), and Dr. Shaik Manzoor Eilahi (Head – Emergency Medicine).
Distinguished guests, including Mr. Ramesh Mangaleswaran, Senior Partner Emeritus at McKinsey & Co., Mr. Sameer Mehta, Chairman, and Dr. Pranav Mehta, Director of Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals, graced the occasion with their presence.
Participants enthusiastically availed the affordable Heart Health Check-up package, which included vital tests, Echocardiogram and consultations, significantly contributing to early detection and prevention efforts. This included a Complete Blood Count, Blood Glucose test, Lipid Profile, Creatinine test, TSH, Echo Screening, ECG, and consultations with medical experts.
Speaking about the event, Mr. Sameer Mehta, Chairman, Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals remarked, “The Cardiac Carnival has been a resounding success in fostering heart health awareness and community engagement. Our mission to educate and empower the public continues with this initiative, and we look forward to making a lasting impact on healthcare outcomes.”
The Cardiac Carnival 2024 underscored Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals’ unwavering dedication to building a heart healthier future for generations.

Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals Hosts Cardiac Carnival 2024 Chennai, December 2024: Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals hosted the Cardiac Carnival 2024, a community-driven initiative aimed at raising awareness about heart health and promoting proactive measures against cardiac diseases. The carnival held today at Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals, Velappanchavadi facility, witnessed an overwhelming response from the community, with hundreds of attendees engaging in activities focused on education, awareness, and innovation in cardiac care.
The highlight of the event was the Launch of the Centre of Excellence in Cardiology a State-of -the-art Cath Lab facilities which facilitates a comprehensive approach to cardiac diagnosis, treatment planning, procedures, and follow-up care, reinforcing Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals’ commitment to cutting-edge heart healthcare solutions.
Attendees also benefitted from life-saving Basic Life Support (BLS) training sessions, complete with free certification, equipping them with essential skills to respond to cardiac emergencies effectively.
A series of expert talks by prominent medical professionals provided valuable insights into heart health. Speakers included Dr. Sriram (Sr. Consultant & Head of Department of Cardiology), Dr. P. Narendhiran (Deputy Head Department of Cardiology), and Dr. Shaik Manzoor Eilahi (Head – Emergency Medicine).
Distinguished guests, including Mr. Ramesh Mangaleswaran, Senior Partner Emeritus at McKinsey & Co., Mr. Sameer Mehta, Chairman, and Dr. Pranav Mehta, Director of Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals, graced the occasion with their presence.
Participants enthusiastically availed the affordable Heart Health Check-up package, which included vital tests, Echocardiogram and consultations, significantly contributing to early detection and prevention efforts. This included a Complete Blood Count, Blood Glucose test, Lipid Profile, Creatinine test, TSH, Echo Screening, ECG, and consultations with medical experts.
Speaking about the event, Mr. Sameer Mehta, Chairman, Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals remarked, “The Cardiac Carnival has been a resounding success in fostering heart health awareness and community engagement. Our mission to educate and empower the public continues with this initiative, and we look forward to making a lasting impact on healthcare outcomes.”
The Cardiac Carnival 2024 underscored Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals’ unwavering dedication to building a heart healthier future for generations.

Kauvery Hospital Launches Centre of Excellence for the Management of Diabetes Complications (COE-MDC)

The centre will provide comprehensive care for Heart, Nerve, Kidney, Vascular, and Foot-related Complications

Chennai, 15th December , 2024: Kauvery Hospital, a leading multispecialty healthcare provider, has launched the Centre of Excellence for the Management of Diabetes Complications, dedicated to addressing the rising burden of diabetes-related complications in India. The centre was inaugurated by Dr. J Radhakrishnan, Additional Chief Secretary to Government and Principal Secretary to Civil Supplies Department Tamil Nadu. This state-of-the-art facility brings together experts from multiple specialties, including neurology, cardiology, nephrology, vascular surgery, foot care, dietetics, and physiotherapy, to deliver comprehensive and specialized care for individuals suffering from diabetes complications.

Diabetes is a growing epidemic in India, with over 100 million people diagnosed with the condition, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research. A significant proportion of these individuals face debilitating complications. Diabetic patients experience neuropathy, which can lead to chronic pain and loss of sensation, cardiovascular diseases with a two- to fourfold increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Chronic Kidney Disease is another major complication in India where Diabetes is a risk factor, often requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Additionally, vascular complications and poor wound healing often result in amputations.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Baraneedharan, Senior Diabetologist at Kauvery Hospital said, “Diabetes does not affect just one organ—it affects the entire body, and its complications can significantly reduce the quality of life. At Kauvery Hospital, we recognize the urgent need to address these challenges. With our Centre for Excellence, we aim to provide a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach that focuses on early intervention, specialized care, and prevention of long-term damage. This centre is a testament to our commitment to empowering individuals to manage their health effectively and live fuller lives.”

The centre will offer a wide range of services, including advanced diagnostics for early detection of complications, personalized treatment plans, wound care for diabetic foot ulcers, nephrology services for kidney health, and targeted therapies for managing cardiac and neurological issues. A team of experienced dietitians and physiotherapists will work closely with patients to promote sustainable lifestyle changes, ensuring better health outcomes.

Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Kauvery Group of Hospitals said “India is witnessing a surge in diabetes-related complications, and it’s critical to address this challenge through a holistic and patient-centered approach. The incidence of diabetes related complications are also on the rise and it becomes important to effectively manage the complications. With our in-house team of specialists, we will be providing multidisciplinary approach to complications that arise due to Diabetes. With the integration of multidisciplinary expertise and a patient-first philosophy, the centre aims to set a benchmark in diabetes care.

Complex Hybrid procedures Restore Mobility for Farmer aged 76, after degenerative Heart Valve Failure and Hip Fracture

The procedures were performed in a span of 3 hours at the Hybrid Operating Room – the safest infrastructure to perform complex procedures for high risk individuals

Chennai, 6th December 2024: Kauvery Hospital, a leading name in advanced medical care, has achieved yet another milestone by performing a groundbreaking dual procedure on a 76-year-old patient from Mayiladudurai, Tamil Nadu. A farmer and teacher by profession, he exemplified the spirit of resilience, undergoing an extraordinary medical journey to regain his mobility and independence.

The patient, who had previously undergone mitral valve replacement with Bioprosthetic valve in 2013, and a recent echo confirmed degeneration of that prosthesis with severe narrowing and leak along with very high right heart pressure (severe pulmonary hypertension) A second operation to replace this will be prohibitively higher risk, hence he was planned to have elective non-surgical Transcatheter Mitral ViV replacement in end of November, however, his journey took an unexpected turn when he suffered a fall at home, leading to a left leg fracture neck of femur (broken hip bone).

The urgency of his hip condition and the critical nature of his heart ailment presented a daunting challenge. It was a high risk procedure that required a multidisciplinary approach and the only safer way to treat him is to do both procedures under the same general anaesthesia, first the Transcatheter Mitral ViV followed by Left Total Hip Replacement, in an Hybrid Cath Lab Operating Room. This is available in very few centres in India, and given the availability of the Hybrid Cath Lab OR, Cardiac and Orthopedic expertise, this patient underwent Hybrid procedure safely and was mobilized within 36 hours.

“The patient underwent a transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve procedure through groin access, a minimally invasive technique that immediately reduced his right-side pressure from 130 to 60 and a normally functioning mitral valve. With his heart condition stabilized, the orthopedic team seamlessly proceeded with the hip replacement surgery on the same operating table at the Hybrid Operating Room,” said Dr R Anantharaman , Senior Interventional Cardiologist Kauvery Hospital Chennai.

The procedures were a resounding success. The patient was extubated from the ventilator and mobilized within 36 hours, defying all odds. His swift recovery enabled him to return to his village and resume his active lifestyle.

“Advances in surgical techniques have made the procedure safer, even for patients with multiple health conditions. This patient was given dual mobility hip replacement thus giving higher chances of life expectancy to hip and reducing any chances of complications in future. As a farmer he wanted to be ready before harvest season and needed better mobility, which could only be achieved through the dual mobility procedure.” said Dr Mukunth K , Senior Consultant Orthopaedics, Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet.

“This case is a perfect example of multidisciplinary care. Coordinating complex heart and orthopedic procedures within a single sitting not only addressed the patient’s medical needs but also ensured faster recovery and minimal disruption to his life. Our advanced Hybrid Operating Room enabled us to perform these life-saving procedures seamlessly, ensuring the patient could return to his life with renewed strength. This Hybrid Operating Room is safest infrastructure to perform high end cardiac and vascular procedures for high risk patients,” said Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director Kauvery Hospitals

Kauvery Hospitals and Women Motorsport Club organized a Bikeathon Rally to raise awareness on Breast Cancer

• Kauvery Hospital and Women Motorsport Club successfully entered the Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records for the largest pink ribbon formation by bikers

• 250 women bikers participated for raising awareness about breast cancer

Chennai, October 27th, 2024 – Kauvery Hospitals in association with the Women Motorsport Club, organized a Bikeathon Rally to raise awareness about breast cancer. The event, which attracted 250 women bike enthusiasts, was flagged off from Kauvery Hospital Vadapalani and culminated at YMCA Ground in Nandanam.

The event was presided over by Thiru. Ma. Subramanian, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Thiru Dayanidhi Maran, MP, Tmt. Thamizhchi Thangapandiyan, MP, Tmt. Priya Rajan, Mayor – Greater Chennai Corporation, Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director Kauvery Group of Hospitals and Dr A N Vaidhyswaran, Senior Consultant and Director Radiation Oncology Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet, Chennai

Participants in the rally took part in a powerful display by creating a ribbon formation at YMCA Ground thus successfully entering the Asia Book of records and India Book of records for the largest ribbon formation by bikers.

“With breast cancer now affecting nearly 1 in 28 women in urban South India, awareness and early detection have never been more critical. Through initiatives like this rally, we aim to foster a proactive approach to health, encouraging women to stay informed, get screened, and take charge of their well-being, ” said Dr A N Vaidhyswaran Senior Consultant and Director of Radiation Therapy, Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet.

“Kauvery Hospital has always been at the forefront of social activities and community awareness programs. Our goal is not only to provide exceptional healthcare but also to educate the community about critical health issues. We are pleased to collaborate with the Women Motosport Club for the 5th consecutive year. I appreciate all the bikers who were part of this noble initiative,” said Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-founder and Executive Director of Kauvery Group of Hospitals.

The hospital’s ongoing social and community initiatives towards health education includes various events aimed at raising awareness about serious health conditions, as well as providing free screenings and health check-ups in underserved areas. With this event, Kauvery Hospital reinforces its dedication towards a healthier society and making a meaningful impact in the community.

MV Diabetes Royapuram Launches “DFRI-School of Podiatry”

Chennai, Oct 22, 2024: MV Diabetes Royapuram and Academy of Physicians in Wound Healing (APWH), USA are starting a School of Podiatry for the first time in India under the banner of Diabetic Foot Research India (DFRI). This School of Podiatry based in MV Diabetes Royapuram will train doctors and para medics on the basics of Podiatry like nail care and all the work in Diabetic Foot Care being practiced in MV Diabetes Royapuram.

In his comments Chief Physician Dr Vijay Viswanathan said , “The main focus is going to be to on how to look after the feet in people living with Diabetes. How to avoid avoidable amputation among PLWD will be the main goal of this School of Podiatry. Live surgery session from the OT and examination for high risk feet will be taught to the attending doctors and paramedics.

According to Dr Antony Irio Adjunct Prof New York College of Podiatric Medicine, one of the faculty in the first program from Oct 23 -25 , the latest in Diabetes care and Diabetic Foot Care will be covered in the first program going to be conducted at MV Diabetes Royapuram.

Over 500 Join Rela Hospital’s Walkathon to Promote Lung and Heart Health Awareness

Chennai, 27 September 2024: Rela Hospital organised a 5-km walkathon to raise awareness about lung and heart health, attracting over 500 participants, including doctors and students, in commemoration of World Lung Day and World Heart Day, which fall on September 25 and 29, respectively.

Mr. Pavan Kumar Reddy IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Tambaram, flagged off the event in the presence of Dr. Ilankumaran Kaliamoorthy, CEO, Dr. Srinath Vijayasekharan, Director and Senior Consultant, Institute of Cardiac Sciences, and Dr. Aishwarya Rajkumar, Clinical Lead – Transplant Pulmonology, Rela Hospital.

The hospital is also hosting a free heart and lung health camp on September 29. This event is open to individuals experiencing symptoms related to heart or lung conditions. The heart health camp will be useful for people with symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest or upper body pain, heartburn, and swelling in the legs. The heart check to be conducted will include an ECG, an ECHO screening, and a consultation with a cardiologist. The lung health camp is best suited for individuals with chronic cough, persistent mucus production, wheezing, coughing up blood, or allergies. The lung check will feature a pulmonary function test, an x-ray screening, and a consultation with a pulmonologist. Smokers are also encouraged to attend the camp. To register for the camp, patients can call +91 8610682479

In his comments, Dr. Ilankumaran Kaliamoorthy said, “The role of a hospital extends beyond treating diseases; it is also vital in spreading awareness about disease prevention. At Rela Hospital, we actively conduct awareness programs, including walkathons on significant international health days. We focus particularly on heart and lung health because diseases related to these areas are leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is an urgent need for the public to advocate for a cleaner environment and healthier lifestyles, as these factors significantly contribute to the development of these diseases. At the same time, we are committed to enhancing our expertise and integrating advanced technologies to alleviate suffering in these areas. Furthermore, we also partner with other hospitals and NGOs to extend our reach and provide our expertise for the benefit of patients beyond our immediate community.”

In his observations on World Heart Day, Dr. Srinath Vijayasekharan, said, “Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to rise due to factors like poor lifestyle choices, hypertension, and diabetes, among others. CVDs remain the leading cause of death globally, responsible for an estimated 17.9 million deaths each year. In India alone, heart disease accounts for over 25% of all deaths, with younger populations increasingly at risk. However, advances in medical technology—such as early diagnostic tools, minimally invasive procedures, and breakthrough treatments like stents and robot-assisted surgeries—have also greatly improved patient outcomes in recent years. Still, prevention is the key to reduce the burden of CVDs. We can protect our heart health by adopting healthier diets, staying physically active, and managing stress.”

In her comments, Dr. Aishwarya Rajkumar said, “On World Lung Day, we are reminded of the critical importance of healthy lung function, as our lungs provide oxygen essential for every cell and organ in the body. Without proper lung function, our overall health and quality of life decline. Chronic respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma affect over 500 million people worldwide. In India alone, air pollution contributes to 1.7 million deaths annually, with lung disease incidence steadily rising due to poor air quality, smoking, and occupational hazards. Fortunately, advances in medical technology, such as improved diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgeries, and innovative treatments like targeted biologics, are transforming how we diagnose and treat lung diseases. These innovations offer hope for better outcomes, but preventive measures like clean air and regular check-ups remain essential.”

Chennai Plays Host to a heart-warming moment: Blood Stem Cell Donor Meets 11-Year-Old Survivor

Chennai, September 27, 2024: In a touching tale of humanitarianism, Selva, an 11-year-old boy from Tiruchirappalli who survived Fanconi Anemia, met the person who helped save his life—Dr. Smita Joshi, a 26-year-old clinical pharmacist from Bengaluru for the first time. Selva, who was treated under Dr. Aruna Rajendran, now attends school in the 7th standard, enjoying a new lease on life thanks to the blood stem cell transplant he received.

Dr. Smita Joshi, a dedicated healthcare professional working in Bengaluru, became a stem cell donor with DKMS BMST Foundation India, driven by her passion for helping others. Despite initial reservations from her family, she proceeded with the donation without informing her parents. “I felt it was something I had to do. Knowing I could give someone a second chance at life was motivation enough,” said Smita.

“We are immensely grateful to Dr. Smita Joshi for her life-saving deed. Selva’s recovery has been nothing short of remarkable,” said the survivor’s parents.

Selva was diagnosed with Fanconi Anemia, a rare genetic disorder that affects the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells. A stem cell transplant was Selva’s only hope for survival. Dr. Aruna Rajendran, Associate Professor, Dept of Hematology, Institute of Child Health, Madras Medical College & Bone Marrow Transplant Unit In charge, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, said, “Fanconi Anemia is a rare but serious genetic disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure and life-threatening conditions like leukemia. A stem cell transplant is often the only curative option for these patients. I am pleased to see Selva fully recovered and thriving after his transplant. It is crucial that more individuals, like Dr. Smita Joshi, register as potential stem cell donors, as this can provide hope and life-saving treatment to many more patients in need.”

Every five minutes, someone in India is diagnosed with blood cancer or a blood disorder such as thalassemia or aplastic anaemia. A significant number of these patients are children and young adults, and for many, a blood stem cell transplant is their only hope for recovery. However, for the transplant to be successful, the patient must find a matching Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) donor. Unfortunately, due to the scarcity of registered blood stem cell donors, most patients struggle to find a suitable match. With only a one-in-a-million chance of finding a compatible donor, there is an urgent need for more individuals of Indian ethnicity to register as potential donors.

Patrick Paul, CEO of DKMS BMST Foundation India says, “With over 70,000 individuals in India succumbing to blood cancer and blood disorders annually, there is a critical need for more people to register as stem cell donors. India faces a significant challenge in finding HLA-matched donors for patients in need of stem cell transplants. Donating blood stem cells is a voluntary act of solidarity with a seriously ill person and Dr. Smita’s decision to become a donor is a tangible expression of empathy, stories like Selva’s remind us of the life-changing power of stem cell donation.”

Since Selva’s parents could not afford the costs related to Selva’s treatment DKMS-BMST also helped him to access stem cell transplant by removing the barrier to this life-saving treatment.

In India, patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face substantial challenges in accessing high-end treatment for life-threatening diseases like blood cancer and other blood disorders due to the enormous costs involved. Guidance on treatment options and potential sources of financial support are the most critical factors affecting access to treatment in India. The DKMS BMST Patient Funding Program addresses these challenges by offering partial financial support for stem cell transplant patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds in India when financial resources, including government and other funding support, may not be sufficient to cover all expenses. Efforts of this program have illuminated the path towards a brighter future for many patients, providing them with the promise of a healthier life.

He further emphasises, “As a non-profit organisation, we work to support Indian blood cancer and blood disorder patients to get a second chance at life. To be able to do this, it is important to reduce the financial burden on patients and their families. With the DKMS Patient Funding Programme, we support underprivileged blood cancer and blood disorder patients by covering a part of their stem cell transplantation costs.”
DKMS BMST Foundation India continues its mission to raise awareness about stem cell donation and encourages more people to register as potential donors. Selva’s story, and the actions of donors like Smita, offer hope to the thousands of patients still waiting for a match.

To register as a potential stem cell donor, you must be a healthy Indian adult between 18 and 55. When you are ready to register, all you need to do is complete a consent form and swab the inside of your cheeks to collect your tissue cells. Your tissue sample is then sent to the lab to be analysed for your HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) and listed anonymously on the international search platform for matching stem cell donors. If you’re eligible, register as a blood stem cell donor by ordering your home swab kit at www.dkms-bmst.org/register

Meridian Hospital Celebrates “World Heart Day”and Empanelment Under the ‘Innuyir Kappom-Nammai Kaakkum 48’ Scheme

Chennai, 27th September, 2024 – Meridian Hospital, a 300-bedded Multi-Super Specialty Hospital known for its comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to healthcare proudly celebrated World Heart Day with a commitment to advancing emergency care, announcing its empanelment under the ‘Innuyir Kappom-Nammai Kaakkum 48’ scheme, a Golden Hour life-saving initiative launched by Tamil Nadu’s Honourable Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin. Meridian Hospital, located along major highways, has witnessed a significant number of road accident cases and has been providing critical care to victims.
Meridian Hospital, renowned for its clinical excellence in North Chennai, has already successfully performed kidney transplants and is poised to offer heart transplant services in the near future.
This landmark scheme ensures that all road accident victims, regardless of their state or country of origin, are eligible for hospital treatment free of cost for the first 48 hours following an accident within Tamil Nadu’s limits. The initiative provides access to 81 critical medical treatments that could be pivotal in saving lives during the golden hour. Even those who are not enrolled in the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS) can avail of these benefits.


Prof. Dr. Ashok Thiakarajan, Chief Executive Officer, Meridian Hospital, stated, “We are honoured to be part of this NK 48 scheme initiative that aims to provide immediate and life-saving medical care to accident victims for the Golden period. We have educated CPR for more than 1,00,000 Lakh population in beach, parks, corporates, schools and other public places. Meridian hospital is fully equipped to offer emergency/Trauma treatments through the doctors team consists of Ortho, Cardiac, Vascular, Neuro and plastic surgeons 24×7”
The scheme’s main objective is to prioritize the critical first hour after a road accident, known as the ‘Golden hour,’ especially on highways, where immediate medical attention can dramatically improve survival rates. Meridian Hospital’s team of skilled doctors and emergency specialists are committed to delivering timely care to road accident victims, aligning with the scheme’s goals to safeguard lives across Tamil Nadu.
Dr Daniel Nixxon, Managing Director, Meridian Hospital,”Meridian hospital is dedicated to offering comprehensive medical care, and being empanelled under the ‘Nammai Kaakkum 48’ scheme allows us ensure that NO LIFE IS LOST due to the non- availability of money or facility for the people in their time of greatest need. This partnership reflects our mission to provide accessible, quality healthcare for all.”
World Heart Day celebrations at Meridian Hospital also included free heart check-ups, awareness sessions on cardiovascular health, and workshops aimed at educating the public on preventing heart disease and the importance of emergency preparedness.

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital Organises 17th Edition of Kalpavriksha Annual Ophthalmology Educational Workshop

Chennai, 21 September 2024: Kalpavriksha 2024, the 17th edition of the two-day postgraduate continuing medical education (CME) program for ophthalmology students, organised annually by Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital and Eye Research Centre, the research and educational wing of the hospital, commenced today, with the participation of about 30 renowned faculty and over 250 students from across the country.

Mr. Rajesh Lakhani IAS, Chairman, Tamil Nadu Electricity Board, inaugurated the CME , in the presence of Prof. Athiya Agarwal, Director, Dr. Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital, and organising secretaries: Dr. Soundari. S, Dr. Dhivya Ashok Kumar, and Dr. Preethi Naveen from Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital.\

Modeled on a crash course for postgraduates, the program comprises expert talks in exam-related topics in ophthalmology, a wet lab session on day one and a quiz program on day two. Registered PGs can present exam cases, and the best presented clinical case will be awarded Dr. (Mrs.) T. Agarwal Award for Best Case Presentation.

In his comments, Mr. Rajesh Lakhani said, “I am honoured to inaugurate the 17th edition of Kalpavriksha. It is inspiring to see a program that offers young ophthalmology students the chance to engage with distinguished experts and gain valuable insights from their presentations on clinical cases. I am confident that this initiative will enhance the skills of the participating ophthalmologists, enabling them to provide even better care and service to the broader community and their patients.”

On the benefits of the CME, Prof. Dr. Athiya Agarwal said, “Since its inception in 2007, Kalpavriksha has established itself as a leading National Postgraduate CME Program for ophthalmology students across the country. This year, we are pleased to have over 250 students from more than 35 medical colleges and institutes participating. The program offers a valuable opportunity for students to engage with and learn from top experts in ophthalmology. A distinctive feature of this event is the engaging case presentations on the second day, where students receive direct insights and practical tips from faculty on presenting and discussing clinical cases.”