The primary objective of this initiative is to assess the feasibility of transferring materials, such as frozen section samples, from remote locations to peripheral hospitals using aerial means
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have joined forces to inaugurate the Deployment of a Robust Need based aerial healthcare delivery system (DRONE). The program aims to utilise drones for transporting Oncopathological Samples between Peripheral and Tertiary Care Hospitals in Karnataka.
The primary objective of this initiative is to assess the feasibility of transferring materials, such as frozen section samples, from remote locations to peripheral hospitals using aerial means. This endeavor is expected to enhance the healthcare system by enabling surgeons to perform procedures requiring such investigations in rural areas.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have been gaining popularity across various industries, including healthcare. In India, the lack of intraoperative sample transportation from rural areas presents a significant challenge.
The DRONE project seeks to explore the feasibility, utility, and cost-effectiveness of utilizing drones for this purpose. By leveraging drone technology, samples can be transported swiftly, providing immediate access to advanced diagnostics like Frozen section during surgical procedures. If successful, this research could revolutionise healthcare delivery by establishing connections between remote hospitals and laboratory facilities, thereby facilitating complex surgeries for patients in geographically inaccessible regions.
Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and Director General, ICMR in inaugurating the project, lauded the initiative’s innovative approach to healthcare delivery, highlighting its potential to revolutionise sample transportation and diagnostic services, particularly in underserved rural areas.
During the event, Dr Kamini Walia, Scientist G & Head, Division of DDR, ICMR-Hq, New Delhi highlighted the significance of the project, emphasising its potential impact on healthcare accessibility.
Speaking on the occasion, Anu Nagar, Joint Secretary, Department of Health Research emphasised the transformative potential of the DRONE project, stating that it represents a significant step towards bridging healthcare gaps and ensuring equitable access to medical services across Karnataka.
Dr Sanghmitra Pati, Additional Director General (ADG), ICMR and Director, ICMR-RMRC, Bhubaneshwar underscored the importance of collaborative research efforts in addressing healthcare challenges, expressing optimism about the project’s ability to enhance diagnostic capabilities and improve patient outcomes.
Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, DGHS, MoHFW, who served as chief guests emphasised the importance of the project in addressing healthcare disparities and enhancing medical services in rural areas.
Lt. Gen (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal congratulated the ICMR for spearheading this pioneering initiative, emphasising the importance of leveraging technology to address healthcare disparities and improve healthcare access for all communities.