Seven young children from Bihar, all battling thalassaemia, embarked on a hopeful journey on Tuesday. They departed for the renowned Christian Medical College in Vellore to receive life-saving bone marrow transplants. This initiative is fully funded by the state government under a special health scheme.
State Government's Lifeline for Young Patients
State Health Minister Mangal Pandey confirmed this is the seventh group of children sent for this critical procedure. The Bihar government provides free bone marrow transplants for children affected by thalassaemia. This latest batch brings renewed hope to families across the state.
Children Hail from Various Districts
The seven children come from different districts of Bihar. They include one child each from Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Madhepura, Vaishali, Sitamarhi, Khagaria, and Purvi Champaran. Their journey represents a statewide effort to combat this serious blood disorder.
Prior to this group, bone marrow transplants have already been successfully completed for 26 children in different phases. The program shows consistent progress in treating young patients.
Multi-Level Efforts for Serious Diseases
An official press release detailed the government's comprehensive approach. The state is making multi-level efforts for proper treatment and continuous care of patients suffering from serious diseases. These include thalassaemia, haemophilia, and sickle cell anaemia.
Details of the Chief Minister Child Thalassaemia Scheme
Minister Pandey explained the scheme's specifics. Under the Chief Minister Child Thalassaemia Scheme, eligible children below 12 years receive free bone marrow transplants. The Bihar government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CMC Vellore for this purpose.
Selection for the procedure follows specific medical criteria. Children are chosen when their Human Leukocyte Antigen matches with that of a brother or sister. This match is crucial for successful transplantation.
Government Bears Complete Treatment Cost
The state government covers the entire cost of treatment. This significant financial commitment ensures families face no economic burden during this challenging time.
Approximately Rs 15 lakh is spent per patient on the bone marrow transplant and complete treatment process. This substantial amount covers all necessary expenses for thalassaemia-affected children.
Comprehensive Coverage of Expenses
The funding provides complete support for patients and their families. It includes air travel for the patient, the donor, and the parents. Hospital treatment costs are fully covered.
Accommodation in Vellore, food, and other necessary expenses are also included. This holistic approach ensures families can focus entirely on the child's recovery without financial worries.
The program demonstrates Bihar's commitment to healthcare for its youngest citizens facing serious medical conditions.
