Aims to reach 10,000 children below the age of 5 by the end of the year
Chennai, April 7, 2025
On the occasion of World Health Day, and in line with this year’s theme “Healthy
Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” SIMS Hospital, Vadapalani, a leading centre for
advanced healthcare services, launched ‘Care Bears – Nurturing the Future’, a
citywide free paediatric health check-up program. This initiative is aimed at benefiting
children under the age of five studying in Government Palvadis and Kindergarten
schools across Chennai.
The launch event was graced by Dr. Kalanidhi Veerasamy, Honourable Member of
Parliament, who presided as the Chief Guest and officially inaugurated the program.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Raju Sivasamy, Vice President, SIMS Hospital, said:
“World Health Day serves as a reminder that the health of our youngest citizens
must remain a top priority. Every child deserves access to quality preventive
healthcare early in life. Through ‘Care Bears’, SIMS Hospital is proud to invest in a
future where children are given the healthiest possible start. This program represents
more than just a health check, it’s our commitment to making preventive paediatric
care accessible to all. Let this be a starting point for collective action – by families,
institutions, and communities – to ensure no child is left behind when it comes to
basic healthcare and well-being.”
‘Care Bears’ is an initiative spearheaded by the Paediatrics Department at SIMS
Hospital in collaboration with Government Palvadis and Kindergarten schools across
Chennai. The program is designed to offer comprehensive paediatric care that
includes regular screening, early diagnosis, nutritional guidance, and parent
education.
As part of this outreach, a dedicated team of paediatricians and healthcare
professionals from SIMS Hospital will conduct monthly visits to participating schools.
Children aged 0–5 years will be screened for growth parameters including height,
weight, developmental milestones, and cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Additional
assessments will include checks for chest deformities, dental hygiene, sensory
health such as vision and hearing, and overall physical wellness.
Beyond health assessments, Care Bears will also feature interactive awareness
sessions for parents, focusing on the importance of early intervention and how to
nurture a healthy child. These sessions aim to equip parents with the knowledge and
confidence to make informed decisions about their child’s health journey.
With a goal to impact 10,000 children by the end of 2025, SIMS Hospital reaffirms its
commitment to preventive healthcare and community well-being – one child at a time.
