Bengaluru
Manipal Hospitals on Friday introduced MARS-NOW, an innovative neonatal transport service, to revolutionize neonatal care in Bangalore and the surrounding areas. The critical vulnerability of newborns, especially pre-term or medically fragile infants, during the first hours and days of life necessitates special care. Regular transportation exposes them to potential risks like temperature fluctuations and stress. MARS-NOW, which stands for Manipal Ambulance Service Neonatal-care on Wheels, offers continuous medical support to infants in need of emergency NICU care while en route to the hospital. This service is accessible not only to Manipal Hospitals’ patients but also to residents of Bangalore and neighboring regions. The service was inaugurated by Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, along with Tara Anuradha, Sandalwood Actress & Politician, Sudarshan Channangihalli, Vijay Karnataka Editor and other dignitaries. Dr. H Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman of Manipal Hospitals, emphasized their commitment to neonatal care and compassion. India’s infant mortality rate in 2023 is alarmingly high, with many infants succumbing during ambulance transport to hospitals. MARS-NOW aims to address this issue by equipping the ambulance with essential NICU facilities, ensuring safe transportation. Dr. Karthik Nagesh, HOD & Consultant Neonatology, highlighted their 30 years of neonatal care experience. MARS-NOW operates with four ambulances, two for in-house patients within the city and two for emergency cases to neighboring hospitals, guaranteeing swift access to treatment. These ambulances mimic a Level III B Neonatal Intensive Care unit, furnished with incubators, monitors, ventilators, and other critical equipment to enhance infant comfort during transportation. This initiative aligns with Manipal Hospitals’ vision of a healthier, more caring future for infants and families.
