Date:14/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/12/14/stories/2006121401812100.htm

AP to launch medical helpline

Our Bureau

Hyderabad , Dec. 13

The Andhra Pradesh Government has roped in a not-for-profit organisation run by Satyam Computer Services to launch a toll-free helpline for health-related issues.

People can call 1056 for advice on maternal health, and child and neonatal healthcare. Besides, people can report outbreak of diseases, access information on HIV/AIDS and organ donation, and report domestic violence.

The Government gave administrative sanction for the helpline on Monday. A spokesman said the helpline would greatly help people, particularly in rural areas.

The officials put the cost of operations for 2006-07 at Rs 5 crore.

There are also plans to create a directory of medical service providers - doctors, hospitals and diagnostic centres.

The helpline would be manned by trained personnel to direct calls to the relevant people. "We don't give any prescriptions over phone. It is just advisory. It doesn't replace a doctor," the spokesperson said.