Team Herald
MARGAO: Goa Forward Party President Vijai Sardesai moved a Private Member Resolution to include preventive heart check-ups under the Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana (DDSSY).
Vijai emphasised on the need for the State Health Ministry to strengthen the medical infrastructure to provide quality healthcare for all Goans.
He urged with Health Minister Viswajit Rane to amend the extensive DDSSY scheme to include preventive heart check-ups so that the people of Goa would become more aware and conscious of their personal health and equip themselves for appropriate medical care.
Vijai said, “If we look at global public healthcare providers like the NHS in the England, we can see that they put people first and provide quality and reliable healthcare. Likewise, the State government must offer high-class healthcare to ensure that the people are aware and alert about their personal health.”
He highlighted the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has become a wakeup call for Goa, and the government should prioritise preventive healthcare.
He said, “Preventive heart check-ups will help identify Goa’s priority citizens and help schedule them in the vaccine rollout.” He added that the early detection of heart diseases can help save many Goan lives.
The Fatorda MLA brought to attention the tragic case of a 28-year-old who earlier succumbed from a heart attack and said that even young people suffering from heart ailments, or from hereditary heart conditions, can suddenly die even before they have a chance to seek medical help.
Vijai urged the government to be more serious on the matter especially since there has been an upswing in heart-related deaths.
He pointed out that footballers and athletes may be prone to heart issues and it may not be feasible or economical to arrange ambulances across all minor tournaments.
The GFP chief suggested that by including preventive heart check-ups, the State can ensure that its athletes and citizens are medically fit, and they are not under constant fear and anxiety.
Vijai further sought an assurance on this matter from the Health Minister who then promised the MLA that steps will be taken towards the inclusion of the preventive heart check-ups under the DDSSY scheme.
