Increasing awareness to improve access to healthcare 

The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (SPS) at Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram successfully concluded a four-day health camp in neighbouring villages of the college campus, as part of the 62nd National Pharmacy Week.

With the theme “Join pharmacists to ensure patients safety”, the initiative aimed to raise healthcare awareness and provide essential services to the community. Under the astute leadership of SPS Dean Dr. Anupama Diwan and with the coordination of Dr. Amisha Vyas, Mr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, and Ms. Sandhya Dubey, the event witnessed active participation from invited guests and dedicated student teams. 

Among the invited guests were Dr. Amit Kaur Puri, Project Manager, Apeejay Stya University, Founder, and Director, AKP Healing India and Dr. Jasbir Kaur, a proficient physician.

The student team conducting the camp consisted of M.Pharm and B.Pharm final year students: Monika Dagrar, Arpit Raj, Nikita, Lavika, Mohit, Kartikey, Ritik, Harsh, Vaibhav, Akshay, Diya, Jutika, Himanshu, Pratyaksh, Dipak Chandila and Nikhil.

Spanning over four days, the health camp aimed to promote healthcare awareness and provide valuable services to the community. The camp addressed various health concerns within the community. 

Day 1: Village Kheda Khalilpur, Nuh

The camp, held at Government Senior Secondary School, conducted clinical examinations and check-ups for approximately 65 school students and village women. Parameters evaluated included Blood Glucose, Blood Group, Hemoglobin, Height, Weight, BMI estimation, Blood Pressure, and Eye check. Notably, many women were diagnosed with eye defects such as cataract and weak eyesight.

Day 2: Jindapur, Dist Palwal

The team extended its services to Government Senior Secondary School, Dist Palwal, examining around 70 students. Findings revealed a high prevalence of anemia among girl students and a few cases of high blood pressure. The event was considered a significant success.

Day 3: Village Atta, Dist Mewat

The camp continued its mission at Government Senior Secondary School, Village Atta, Dist Mewat, evaluating approximately 55 students. Surprisingly, a significant number of students were found to have low BMI, being underweight and malnourished.

Day 4: Green Vale Senior Secondary School, Dist Palwal

The final day of the camp was held at Green Valley Senior Secondary School, Dist Palwal, where the team examined approximately 80 students. Similar parameters were assessed, and those with weak eyesight were advised to consult a doctor. Students with low BMI and malnutrition were recommended a proper diet, while those with high blood pressure were advised to seek physician consultation.

Recommendations and follow-ups

Throughout the four days, individuals with identified health issues were given appropriate advice and guidance. Those with weak eyesight were urged to consult a doctor, while students with nutritional deficiencies or high blood pressure were directed to appropriate healthcare professionals. Girl students with anemia were provided with iron supplements and advised on maintaining a healthy diet.

A resounding success!

The health camp proved to be a great success, addressing various health concerns within the community. The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Apeejay Stya University, remains committed to organising such impactful social camps in the future, contributing to the well-being of society and reinforcing the importance of pharmacists in ensuring patient safety.