MUMBAI: SBI General Insurance, one of India’s leading general insurance companies, has announced a new film featuring Pankaj Tripathi in continuation of its campaign ‘Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa’. The film highlights the growing need for health insurance in our daily lives and in these uncertain times.

India is witnessing a steady rise in lifestyle-related health concerns and medical inflation, increasing the financial burden on households during emergencies. Recent government data released through the National Statistical Office’s (NSO) 80th round health survey showed that an average hospitalisation in the country now leads to an out-of-pocket expenditure of over ₹34,000 for households, underscoring the significant financial burden medical emergencies can place on families despite growing health insurance penetration.

Featuring Pankaj Tripathi, the film is rooted in the realities of everyday life. It vividly reflects the daily hustle, long commutes, demanding workdays, and sacrifices people make to secure a better future for their families. Through an emotional and relatable narrative, the film reminds viewers that while they work tirelessly for their loved ones, they often overlook a key priority: protecting their family’s health and financial well-being and securing the future of those who matter most. The campaign reinforces the importance of choosing trusted and adequate health insurance support during uncertain times.

Speaking on this, Rathin Lahiri, Head – Marketing & CSR, SBI General Insurance, said, “Healthcare preparedness today is about more than just owning an insurance policy. For salaried individuals with family responsibilities, setting aside at least 2% of annual income towards insurance can be a prudent step to address changing health needs and rising medical costs. Through our Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa campaign, featuring Pankaj Tripathi as brand ambassador, we wanted to reflect the everyday efforts people make for their loved ones while encouraging a more proactive approach to protecting their family’s health and financial well-being. The campaign underscores the importance of choosing coverage that genuinely supports families during uncertain times.” 

Health insurance today is evolving beyond emergency financial support to become an important pillar of long-term healthcare and financial preparedness for families. Planning through adequate health coverage can often help families navigate medical uncertainties more confidently while reducing financial strain during emergencies.

SBI General Insurance continues to offer customer-centric health insurance solutions designed to support individuals and families with comprehensive coverage and flexible benefits. Its recently launched Health Alpha plan offers customisable coverage options, cashless hospitalisation across an extensive hospital network, preventive healthcare benefits, coverage for modern treatments, and seamless claims assistance, helping customers choose protection suited to their evolving healthcare needs.

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For every patient, it’s vital to focus on the variations in process, regulatory provisions, and practical implications of obtaining both types of medical certificates.

Face-to-face consultations allow comprehensive physical examination and personal interaction, whereas telehealth provides convenience to patients who cannot visit. Every approach has its own unique set of advantages, drawbacks, and limitations.

Here, in this detailed blog, we’ll shed light on five key aspects covering the differences between in-person and telehealth medical certificates. Let’s check them out…

1. Physical Presence

Face-to-face appointments are all about the patient physically coming to a medical facility and can have personal communication with the healthcare professional. Such physical presence may help to conduct a deeper analysis and provide immediate feedback.

Unlike that, a telehealth medical certificate is created during virtual visits. The healthcare provider looks at the patient via a screen, which can limit the ability to conduct an in-depth physical evaluation.

2. Consultation Format

Physical visits may take a more conventional structure, with patients filling out surveys and discussing their symptoms directly, which improves communication and closeness.

Telehealth uses video conferencing platforms or phone calls, which, although convenient, can hinder non-verbal communication and the overall patient-provider relationship.

3. Documentation and Signing

In-person delivery of medical certificates commonly implies that the healthcare provider signs the paper certificate by hand, thus providing a specific degree of authenticity.

However, telehealth certificates may be digitally transmitted and electronically signed. This is a quick and convenient process that raises concerns about the authentication of the provider’s signature and the authenticity of the certificate.

4. Accessibility

Telehealth is more accessible, particularly to patients who have mobility issues or those who live in remote locations. Medical certificates can be delivered to patients in the comfort of their homes without travelling, which is cost-effective and time-saving.

On the other hand, face-to-face visits can be inconvenient to people who may have transport problems or time limitations. Sometimes, people get late to attend appointments on time, thanks to heavy traffic on the roads, which interrupts medical treatments.

5. Scope of Services

Some conditions need physical examination that can only be conducted face-to-face to diagnose and treat them well. Physical medical attention will address a broader scope of challenges, which would require practical examination.

Conversely, telehealth can be applied in cases of minor conditions or follow-up appointments, where physical assessment is not a primary concern.

6. Confidentiality and Privacy

Both procedures strive to preserve patient confidentiality; however, telehealth may expose patients to cybersecurity vulnerabilities or unsecured communication systems.

Face-to-face consultations are frequently held in private examination rooms, which provide a more secure setting for sensitive discussions.

Final Words

These distinctions reveal the unique features of the medical certificates in person and on telehealth. Based on the situation, needs, and conditions, research the pros and cons of both certification types, providing you (as a patient) with information on which one to choose.

Image Source: Freepik.com

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As a Mini Ratna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), HLL is leading the deployment strategy, which includes demonstration and training of the BHISHM Cubes. The objective is to provide comprehensive expertise to hospital personnel, especially in emergency health. This training is conducted by expert trainers skilled in Disaster Management and possessing hands-on experience in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), ensuring the effective deployment and management of BHISHM Cubes in various disaster settings.

PGIMER is the ninth institution to host the showcase this year. The event was led by Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Tanmoy Roy, now a consultant with HLL’s Defense Pharma division. More than 200 participants, including doctors, paramedical personnel, and emergency responders, observed the demonstration and took part in follow-up training. “Every life is important. With the Arogya Maitri Bhishm Cube, we are ensuring that high-quality medical care reaches even the most remote or crisis-stricken areas within the critical golden hour,” said Mr. Tanmay Roy.

Introduced under the Aarogya Maitri initiative — an acronym for Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri — the BHISHM Cube is a compact, self-contained emergency medical unit weighing under 20 kilograms and small enough to be carried by a single individual. The cube is engineered for rapid deployment across air, land, sea, or drone-assisted missions. Among its capabilities: the ability to support basic medical care for up to 200 casualties, conduct up to 15 minor surgeries per day, and operate independently of local infrastructure thanks to onboard power generation and oxygen supply systems. Its smart design includes real-time inventory tracking using RFID technology and a multilingual application offering operational instructions in over 18 languages. Field-tested for durability, the unit is resistant to water, corrosion, and extreme weather conditions — features that make it suitable not only for domestic disaster response but also for international humanitarian relief.

Last year, India gifted four BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine as part of its humanitarian assistance to the war-affected nation.

According to officials, more than 1,000 healthcare professionals have been trained under this programme to date. The next demonstration is scheduled to take place at the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) in Puducherry, Tamil Nadu.

At PGIMER, the event concluded with a hands-on training session for emergency staff, reinforcing the Indian government’s strategy to embed the BHISHM Cube into institutional emergency protocols. HLL described the initiative as a step toward not only national readiness but also India’s evolving role in global humanitarian efforts.

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Entrepreneur Shyam Kasat expressed satisfaction that the donation made by the entire Kasat family was being used for the right purpose to establish the palliative care unit.

Volunteer Shridhar Lokhande expressed his views on the need and ideal role of volunteers in palliative care.

Dr. V. S. Ghole, Executive Director, Lokmanya Medical Research Center, Trustee. The program was moderated by Dr. Bina Rajan.

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Manufactured at the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) in Visakhapatnam, Anamaya is a testament to Indian innovation and excellence. “Anamaya” resonates with “health” and embodies trust and progress with the ethos of “Imaging the path to wellness.” This groundbreaking MRI machine delivers unmatched diagnostic accuracy through advanced imaging technology, offering faster scan times, enhanced patient comfort, and cost-effective operation. Its launch aligns with Ruby Medical Services’ mission to provide accessible, world-class diagnostics to underserved regions.

Marking the beginning of the event with a symbolic gesture of enlightenment. The launch event also included speeches from prominent medical professionals and dignitaries, including Dr. Simon Grant, Physician and Trustee, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune; Ms. Natalie Grant Nanda, GM-Strategy & Business Development of Ruby Hall Clinic, Mr. Behram Khodaiji, CEO, Ruby Hall Clinic; Dr. Pranav Mahadeokar, Consultant Radiologist & HOD, Ruby Hall Clinic; Padma Shri Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Founder & Chairman of Mahajan Imaging and Former President of IRIA. The occasion was marked by a ceremonial lamp lighting and the unveiling of the Anamaya MRI machine, followed by a corporate film screening that showcased Ruby Hall Clinic’s legacy of healthcare excellence.

Dr. P.K. Grant, Managing Trustee, Chairman, and Chief Cardiologist of Ruby Hall Clinic, expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, “We are proud to announce the installation of Anamaya 1.5 tesla MRI scanner at our Sangamner unit, a groundbreaking innovation in medical imaging technology, proudly assembled in India. This cutting-edge machine not only boasts advanced technology but also addresses all the clinical needs of radiologists, providing unparalleled image quality and diagnostic accuracy. What sets Anamaya apart is its commitment to making MRI accessible to all. With its affordable lifecycle pricing, this machine democratizes medical imaging, bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients. Our mission is to provide world-class medical imaging solutions that are accessible, affordable, and reliable. We’re proud to be a part of India’s healthcare revolution.“

Bala, CEO of 3i MedTech, a Refex Group Company, said “I am delighted to introduce Anamaya, our Made-in-India 1.5T MRI system that is set to transform diagnostic imaging, with unmatched clarity in imaging for precise diagnosis, a wide range of advanced clinical applications, and an unparalleled patient experience, Anamaya addresses the needs of all stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem.” Mr. Bala emphasized that this milestone reinforces the company’s dedication to making advanced medical imaging accessible and affordable without compromising on quality, reliability, or patient safety. “By integrating AI and state-of-the-art insights, we are confident that Anamaya will set new benchmarks in clinical outcomes and patient care.”

This achievement is a triumph for Ruby Medical Services and Indian healthcare, showcasing the transformative power of Indigenous innovation under the Make in India initiative. The installation of Anamaya at Sangamner is a proud moment for the nation, solidifying India’s place on the global stage in medical technology.

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MUMBAI: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s largest online travel tech platforms, has announced the acquisition of a 49% equity stake in Pflege Home Healthcare and 30% in Rollins International, marking its strategic expansion into the rapidly growing medical tourism sector. These acquisitions align with EaseMyTrip’s mission to offer holistic travel solutions by integrating wellness and healthcare services into its service portfolio as medical tourism.

EaseMyTrip has acquired Pflege Home Healthcare, a renowned home healthcare provider headquartered in Dubai. Pflege offers comprehensive care services across a wide range of segments, from doctor visits, Registered Nursing care at Home and physiotherapy to home-based medical equipment like ventilators and oxygen. Their patient-centric approach ensures high-quality, compassionate care in the comfort of their clients’ homes. The acquisition of Pflege empowers EaseMyTrip to offer reliable healthcare services, expanding its offerings in the medical tourism domain to cater to travelers seeking medical treatments or wellness solutions abroad.

Alongside Pflege Home Healthcare, Rollins International has a strong presence in India with its focus on gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergen-free food products, highly effective health supplements, and cutting-edge wellness therapies. Rollins also operates a range of brands offering state-of-the-art wellness devices, nutritional guidance, and recreational spaces. Rollins’s flagship wellness centers are now present in New Delhi, Gurugram, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru and coming soon to even more localities, cities, and countries. This acquisition allows EaseMyTrip to enter the healthcare market with a robust portfolio designed to meet the unique needs of customers dealing with food allergies, distinct wellness requirements, and lifestyle challenges.

Nishant Pitti, CEO & Co-founder of EaseMyTrip, stated, “EaseMyTrip’s portfolio has grown manifold with the inclusion of Rollins International and Pflege Home Healthcare. It is a pivotal progression for us toward revolutionizing medical tourism. With the growing demand for accessible, quality healthcare services, this acquisition was necessary to meet the evolving needs of travelers seeking wellness and medical solutions. As India’s trusted travel ally, EaseMyTrip is ready to step up and deliver seamless healthcare journeys. Our commitment is to ensure that both our domestic and international customers receive the highest standards of care, with convenience at every step.“

Commenting on the acquisition, Parveen Jakhar, Co-Founder, of Pflege Home Healthcare, said, “Our collaboration with EaseMyTrip is a significant step towards extending the accessibility of premium healthcare services. By integrating our Medical Tourism and home healthcare expertise with their global travel platform, we aim to provide a seamless experience for individuals seeking medical treatment or wellness services abroad. This partnership will enable us to deliver compassionate care to a wider audience, ensuring that medical travelers receive the support they need in a convenient, comfortable environment.”

Rohan Jain, Co-Founder, of Rollins International, said, “We are excited to join forces with EaseMyTrip, integrating our expertise in allergen-free products and wellness solutions with their vast travel network. This partnership enables us to create unique, health-focused travel experiences tailored to customers’ evolving lifestyle needs. Together, we will offer unparalleled access to wellness services, ensuring that health-conscious travelers feel supported every step of the way.”

These acquisitions come at a time when medical tourism is witnessing unprecedented growth in India and globally. The medical tourism industry is currently valued at USD 7.69 billion and is expected to reach USD 14.31 billion by 2029. By offering a combination of travel and healthcare services, EaseMyTrip is set to create a unique value proposition for both domestic and international clients. The move is expected to bolster EaseMyTrip’s overall business strategy, further solidifying its reputation as a key player in the travel and tourism industry.

Earlier last year, EaseMyTrip expanded its portfolio through the acquisition of several companies in the travel and hospitality sectors, including Guideline Travels Holidays, TripShope Travel Technologies, and Dook Travels, further reinforcing its commitment to growth and diversification.

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The ambulance parade was flagged off by Mr. Pramod Alagharu, Regional COO, North & West Region, Manipal Hospitals, Dr. Sushant Chhabra, Cluster Head, Emergency Medicine North & West Region, Manipal Hospitals, and Dr. Y.K. Mishra, Chairman Manipal Institute of Cardiac Sciences.

During this event, the hospital honored the 100 ambulance drivers who worked tirelessly 24×7 to save lives. The drivers were felicitated and provided with free health checkups, recognizing their dedication and selflessness. It served as a powerful tribute to the hospital’s commitment to patient care, mirroring the vigilance and dedication of soldiers who protect the nation’s borders.

Dr. Sushant Chhabra, Cluster Head, Emergency Medicine North & West Region, Manipal Hospitals said “The foundation of a robust emergency medicine department relies on a reliable ambulance service and strong pre-hospital care. These essential components ensure the timely transportation and appropriate medical attention for patients in critical situations, significantly impacting outcomes and saving lives. Today’s ambulance parade showcased the importance of these services, leaving a significant impact on our mission to improve emergency care and save lives.”

Viji Varghese, Hospital Director, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi, said, “The ambulance parade signifies our commitment to patient safety and emergency preparedness. Our ambulance team are our frontline warriors, and today, as we celebrate our nation’s independence, we also honor the tireless efforts of our healthcare teams who work around the clock to protect our community.”

The hospital has extended the Independence Day spirit with ’15 Days of Health & Wellness’ until August 20th, 2024, offering discounted evening OPD consultations and essential lab tests at just ₹78 each, empowering the community to prioritize their health and well-being in line with the hospital’s mission to build a healthier nation.

For emergencies, residents of Dwarka can reach out to the hospital’s ER number: 01140407070.

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I-SPORT Medical Centre stands out as the first of its kind in the region, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to the needs of athletes and individuals with active lifestyles. With a mission to make world-class sports medicine accessible to all, the facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a team of highly qualified specialist doctors and bio-mechanics scientists. The center is designed to deliver evidence-based treatments and personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives the highest standard of medical attention.

Dr. Sumedh Magar, Director of I-SPORT Medical Centre, shared his vision for the facility during the inauguration, stating, “At I-SPORT Medical Centre, we are committed to carrying forward the legacy of 35 years of modern orthopedic health for all. We have established a unique interdisciplinary model involving orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, bio-mechanists, and human performance scientists along with physicians. This team approach ensures holistic patient care for health issues and performance development. My deep passion for sports and sports medicine drives our mission to provide top-notch care that enables our patients to return to their best physical selves. We leverage the latest advancements in medical technology and maintain an unwavering focus on patient-centered care, ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors receives the best possible treatment.”

Dr. Sumedh Magar, an accomplished orthopedic surgeon, and sports medicine specialist trained in the UK, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the center. His unique academic background, including a double master’s in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine underscores his dedication to advancing the field. With a Fellowship in Adult Reconstruction Surgery, Dr. Magar’s proficiency in Arthroscopy, Joint Preservation Surgery, and Arthroplasty makes him a trusted name in the field. The idea for I-SPORT has rooted from his multi-centric experience at FIFA Medical Centre and International Olympic Committe recognized institutions in London.

I-SPORT Medical Centre is not just a medical facility; it is a commitment to the well-being of the physically active and sporting community. By offering affordable, world-class care, the center aims to develop a research-based approach to create a significant impact on the lives of athletes and sports enthusiasts across Maharashtra and beyond. The successful outcomes achieved by patients at I-SPORT Medical Centre are a testament to the effectiveness of its specialized approach and the dedication of its medical team.

The post I-SPORT Medical Centre Launches in Pune appeared first on NRI News.

PUNE: A team of doctors at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre performed optic nerve decompression, bony fixation to restore vision and bone grafting, and skull reconstruction to correct facial injuries near the eye orbit of a 26-year-old girl. The young IT professional had suffered complex injuries including eye orbit and lost her vision after being hit with stones hurled by a drunken person near the Ramtekdi area. A team of doctors at Noble Hospital and Research Centre including ENT expert Dr.Sudhir Halikar, Plastic surgeons Dr.Ravi Swaminathan and Dr Manoj Pawar, and ophthalmologist Dr. Sachin Bodhale pursued the case for six months with two complex procedures.

Explaining the case of Dr. Ravi Swaminathan. Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that about six months back the young girl was brought to our hospital with heavy bleeding cuts near her eye and fractured eye bones. She was riding a pillion on a bike when she was hit on the side of her eye. The soft tissue and bony injury had caused compression of her optic nerve and she had lost her vision.  She had also suffered serious facial injuries and that had complicated the situation. He added that the priority was to restore her vision.

A team at Nobel Hospitals under the leadership of ENT expert Dr.Sudhir Halikar and plastic surgeons Dr. Swaminathan performed the ‘Endoscopic Optic Nerve’ decompression procedure.

Dr.Sudhir Halikar, ENT surgeon at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that the procedure is conducted under general anesthesia.  The two-step procedure involved putting the endoscope along with other tools through the nose to open the sinuses behind the optic nerve and the eye. In the second step, the bone overlaying the optic canal was removed to make more space and ease some pressure on the optic nerve.

It is important to understand the structure of the portion near the eye orbit. The optic nerve is spread from the brain, through the skull to the eye. A portion of this nerve is also in a rigid bony tunnel near the skull. Any condition like injury, trauma, tumor, or overgrowth may cause compression or swelling increasing the pressure on the optic nerve. This may cause loss of vision. Therefore, reducing pressure on the optic nerve is important. Endoscopic optic nerve decompression is a minimally invasive procedure performed by ENT surgeons.

Dr. Swaminathan added that the second and equally important part included bone grafting and skull reconstruction. The first step involved decompression by cutting the overlaying bone reducing the pressure. But the orbital globe requires support and a bone cannot be placed inside as it will increase the pressure again. So the floor is reconstructed by giving the support of a titanium plate.

Plastic Surgeon Dr Manoj Pawar said that this is important to ensure the restoration of eye orbit contours. In simple terms, it helps to bring both eyes on the same horizontal level and correct double vision.

The stitches were removed and in August’s first week when the girl came for a follow-up, the doctors found the scars almost fully recovered.

Dr Divij Mane, Director of Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that It’s teamwork, commitment to the patients, and commitment to one another as a team that results in the best possible outcome for the patients. We congratulate our team for addressing this rare condition successfully.

Dr Dileep Mane, Managing Director of Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that we aim to deliver the most advanced care in the field backed by the best experts This case reflects how multidisciplinary team effort can bring the best results for the patient. We are happy that the aspiring youngster has restored vision and will be back soon to pursue her ambitions in life. 

The post From Darkness to Clarity: The Inspiring Story of an IT Professional’s Vision Restoration and Facial Reconstruction via Two-Stage Medical Procedures appeared first on NRI News.

I-SPORT Medical Centre stands out as the first of its kind in the region, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to the needs of athletes and individuals with active lifestyles. With a mission to make world-class sports medicine accessible to all, the facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a team of highly qualified specialist doctors and bio-mechanics scientists. The center is designed to deliver evidence-based treatments and personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives the highest standard of medical attention.

Dr. Sumedh Magar, Director of I-SPORT Medical Centre, shared his vision for the facility during the inauguration, stating, “At I-SPORT Medical Centre, we are committed to carrying forward the legacy of 35 years of modern orthopedic health for all. We have established a unique interdisciplinary model involving orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, bio-mechanists, and human performance scientists along with physicians. This team approach ensures holistic patient care for health issues and performance development. My deep passion for sports and sports medicine drives our mission to provide top-notch care that enables our patients to return to their best physical selves. We leverage the latest advancements in medical technology and maintain an unwavering focus on patient-centered care, ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors receives the best possible treatment.”

Dr. Sumedh Magar, an accomplished orthopedic surgeon, and sports medicine specialist trained in the UK, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the center. His unique academic background, including a double master’s in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine, underscores his dedication to advancing the field. With a Fellowship in Adult Reconstruction Surgery, Dr. Magar’s proficiency in Arthroscopy, Joint Preservation Surgery, and Arthroplasty makes him a trusted name in the field. The idea for I-SPORT is rooted in his multi-centric experience at FIFA Medical Centre and International Olympic Committee-recognized institutions in London.

I-SPORT Medical Centre is not just a medical facility; it is a commitment to the well-being of the physically active and sporting community. By offering affordable, world-class care, the center aims to develop a research-based approach to create a significant impact on the lives of athletes and sports enthusiasts across Maharashtra and beyond. The successful outcomes achieved by patients at I-SPORT Medical Centre are a testament to the effectiveness of its specialized approach and the dedication of its medical team.

The post I-SPORT Medical Centre Inaugurated in Pune appeared first on NRI News.