Gruha Arogya project to expand statewide by May

Indresh

CH NEWS

The increasing prevalence of high blood pressure and diabetes has become a growing concern due to changing lifestyles, the consumption of processed foods, and work-related stress. In response to this rising threat, the state government has decided to implement a scheme to deliver medicines directly to the homes of patients. The "Gruha Arogya" (Home Health) initiative, designed to provide essential medications to individuals suffering from these chronic diseases, will be launched shortly. Preparations are already in full swing, with the program expected to roll out soon.

“We have procured medicines for both diseases in all districts of the state,” Gruha Arogya scheme state nodal officer Dr. G Srinivas told City Highlights on Tuesday. “We sent a proposal to the state government to decide the launch date. We will receive a response before the end of this week. Most likely, the launch will happen on April 28 or the first week of May,” he added.

Health officials across various districts have been actively collecting data through ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activists) and Anganwadi workers to identify households with individuals afflicted by high blood pressure and diabetes.

Under the scheme, medicines will be distributed to patients every Tuesday and Friday. For every 5,000 patients, one staff nurse will be assigned, while for every 1,000 patients, one ASHA worker will be designated. During each household visit, a month's supply of medication will be provided.

The "Gruha Arogya" initiative was piloted in October 2024 in Kolar district, where it received a positive response. According to reports, approximately 26.9 percent of the population in Karnataka suffers from high blood pressure, while about 15.6 percent are affected by diabetes.