Healthcare expansion along the coast: “Namma Clinic” plans new centers in DK & Udupi

Team Udayavani, Jan 15, 2024, 9:05 AM IST

In a significant move to enhance healthcare accessibility, the well-established “Namma Clinic” in the city is set to expand its services to the town panchayat, aligning with the state government’s initiative to establish eight new health facilities along the coast. Anticipated to commence operations in the coming months, five clinics in Dakshina Kannada district and three in Udupi district are in the pipeline.

Currently operational in various locations under the Mangalore Municipal Corporation, including Suterpet, Bolar, Bunder, Pacchanady, Kodical, Kunjathbail, Meenakalia, Duggaladka of Sullia, Gantalakatte of Moodbidiri, Kerebailu of Ullal, Kodimbala of Kadaba, and Bannur village of Puttur, the existing clinics have garnered a positive response from the public in areas such as Bidinagudde, Kakkunje, Nittoor in Udupi district, Kharvikeri in Kundapur, T.T. Road, Marinapur of Karkala.

Dr. Thimmaiah, the District Health Officer for Dakshina Kannada, shared that the clinics have adjusted their operational hours to better suit the public, extending from 8 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 8 pm. This modification has not only made the clinics more labor-friendly but has also led to an increased daily influx of patients, averaging between 25 to 30 individuals.

The clinics aim to provide a comprehensive range of services, including  Pregnant and Infant Care, Child Services, Family Welfare Services, Infectious Diseases Management, Full Outpatient Services, Diabetes and Blood Pressure Testing, Cancer Screening Services, Oral Health Services, Eye Checkups, Nose and Throat Services, Mental Health Screening Services, and Geriatric Care. With a dedicated team comprising a doctor, nurse, experimental school technician, and support staff, the clinics offer free services to the public.

Expansion plans are underway, with upcoming clinics slated for Kotekar city Panchayat, Bajpe, Mulki, Vittal, Kinnigoli in Dakshina Kannada District. Additionally, proposals have been submitted to the government for clinics in Kaup, Saligrama, and Manipal in Udupi district.