Shillong: In a groundbreaking move, the Meghalaya government has unveiled a novel tuberculosis (TB) control program that uniquely integrates the expertise of traditional healers with contemporary medical practices.
This initiative is a direct response to the multifaceted challenges posed by the state’s remote geography, inconsistent telecommunications infrastructure, and the enduring reliance on traditional medicine within its diverse communities.
Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal articulated the strategic rationale behind this approach, underscoring the strength and influence of Meghalaya’s community systems. “The state has acknowledged the distinct obstacles presented by geographically isolated regions, insufficient telecom connectivity, and the prevalence of traditional healing practices. These factors have been instrumental in shaping our TB control strategy,” he stated.
A pivotal aspect of this program involves bridging the divide between conventional healthcare and indigenous medical knowledge. To achieve this, the government has provided specialized training to traditional healers, equipping them with the skills to identify potential TB cases. These healers are now instrumental in the early detection process, conducting initial screenings and referring suspected cases for formal medical assessment. Moreover, they are incentivized with monetary rewards for each referral that results in a confirmed TB diagnosis.
Complementing these community-based efforts is the strategic deployment of technology. The state has significantly enhanced its diagnostic capabilities by introducing hand-held X-ray machines, enabling broader access to diagnostic services in previously inaccessible areas. Furthermore, there has been a substantial increase in the number of Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) machines, which have significantly improved early detection rates.
In the Ri Bhoi district alone, the deployment of six NAAT machines and more than a dozen hand-held X-ray devices has dramatically expanded diagnostic capacity in regions where traditional healthcare access is severely limited.
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