Nagpur: Shalinitai Meghe Hospital and Research Centre (SMHRC), Nagpur, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Smrutishesh Madhukarrao Tamgadge Trust to offer completely free-of-cost treatment to all patients suffering from sickle cell disease. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative where a private medical college and hospital will provide such care, a facility that was earlier available only at govt healthcare centres.
The partnership ensures that all sickle cell patients requiring regular hospital admissions, management, and blood transfusions will now be able to access high-quality care at SMHRC without any financial burden. A dedicated ward for these patients was also inaugurated at the hospital’s maternal and child health wing.
This initiative is expected to significantly boost the reach and impact of the govt of India’s National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, which aims to eradicate the disease and improve the quality of life for affected individuals by 2047. The initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has advocated for coordinated, nationwide efforts to tackle sickle cell disease, particularly in tribal and high-burden regions.
Kusum Tai Tamgadge, president of the Smrutishesh Madhukarrao Tamgadge Trust, played a pivotal role in the trust’s extensive work in awareness, screening, and support for sickle cell patients across Maharashtra. “Our mission has always been to ensure no sickle cell patient is left behind. With this collaboration, we are one step closer,” she said.
The MoU signing event was attended by several dignitaries, including Sandeep Tamgadge, additional director general of police (Law & Order), Nagaland, who is also the Trust’s Patron. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between NGOs and medical institutions in addressing public health challenges like sickle cell disease.
Dr Anup Marar, director of DMIHER (DU) – Off Campus, under which SMHRC functions, welcomed the initiative and reiterated the institution’s commitment to community healthcare. Dr Vasant Gawande, CMS–SMHRC, coordinated the programme and confirmed that the hospital is fully prepared to handle sickle cell cases under this new arrangement.
This partnership is expected to serve as a model for similar collaborations nationwide, demonstrating how the private sector can play a meaningful role in advancing healthcare access for marginalised and vulnerable groups.
