A two-day Congenital Heart Disease screening camp concluded yesterday the 24th June, 2026 at Loomkhliehriat, Panaliar Jowai, with a total of 186 individuals registered and screened. The camp was organized by the District Early Intervention Center (DEIC), Jowai, in collaboration with the Amrita Institute of Medical Science, Kochi catered to patients from both East and West Jaintia Hills Districts.
The medical team included Dr. Mahesh and Dr. Amit, along with specialist assistance with Dr. M. Swet from MCH.
Out of the 186 individuals screened, 43 have been selected for surgery, while 62 cases have been advised for follow up review after six months to a year.
Speaking during the camp Dr. Mahesh K, Professor of Pediatric Cardiology at Amrita Hospital, Kochi, emphasized the significance of addressing congenital heart defects, which are the most common birth defects in children. He highlighted that these heart defects can be effectively treated with surgery, and early intervention is crucial to prevent complications.
The Specialist Team also visited the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) hospital where they screened and assessed critically ill newborns and children admitted to the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)and Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
According to information received from the DEIC center, the identification and referral process begins at the block level. Children suspected of having congenital heart diseases are initially identified in the field by the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) Mobile Health Teams (MHT) and Medical Officers from their respective Primary Health Centers (PHCs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs).
Following identification, these children are referred for registration at the District Early Intervention Center for registration, screening and assessment by the pediatrician & Medical Officer of DEIC.
A confirmatory echocardiogram is then conducted at higher institutions, such as NEIGRIHMS, or at private hospitals in Shillong.
Once the disagonis is confirmed, eligible children are enrolled for screening camp Based on the diagnosis by the specialist team from Kochi, they are chosen for surgery, which is provided free of charge under the RBSK program.
Officials and medical officers from RBSK urge all residents of the Jaiñtia Hills District to come forward and register any suspected cases of congenital heart diseases within their families, communities, villages, or areas.
Under the RBSK Programe, the public can also access complimentary services for Children with various Birth Defects at the District Early Intervention Center (DEIC) at Panaliar.
The Officials from DEIC further informed that the 43 cases selected for surgery during the camp will be sent to Kochi in batches for surgical treatment. All associated costs, including travel expenses and medical services at the center, will be covered entirely free of charge.
