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From Survivor to Savior: Sandeep Kumar Brings Healthcare to Rural India

  • fictiofy
  • Dec 23, 2024
  • 3 min read

Sandeep Kumar's story is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of perseverance. Diagnosed with a rare bone cancer at the tender age of 12, Kumar's battle with the disease was long and arduous. However, this experience not only shaped his future but also ignited a passion within him to bridge the gap in healthcare access for countless others in rural India.


Kumar's harrowing ordeal began with a swelling in his rig ht hand. Local doctors were unable to diagnose the issue for months, highlighting the fragmented healthcare system prevalent in rural areas. This meant that villagers like Kumar had to undertake arduous journeys to distant cities for even basic medical consultations, let alone specialist care. Finally, after a biopsy, Kumar received the life-altering diagnosis of Ewing Sarcoma. Treatment involved multiple rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, and physiotherapy, all at a significant financial cost. Fortunately, Kumar received support from government agencies, NGOs, friends, and family, enabling him to complete his treatment successfully.


Even during his treatment, the plight of other patients resonated deeply with Kumar. Witnessing their helplessness fueled his determination to make a difference. Following his recovery, Kumar pursued higher education, earning a Master's degree in Sociology and Social Work, along with certifications from prestigious institutions. He then dedicated himself to working with various NGOs, supporting patients from across India visiting large hospitals in Mumbai for treatment. He even formed a support group for childhood cancer survivors to share their experiences and offer encouragement to others battling the disease.


In 2019, while visiting his village, Kumar observed that the situation regarding healthcare access hadn't improved significantly. This reignited his desire to make a change. Drawing upon his network of doctors and advisors, and with the support of the district CMO, Kumar established the first telemedicine center under the DigiSwasthya Foundation in his home district of Sant Kabir Nagar.


Initially operating from his own home, Kumar facilitated consultations between patients and specialists via phone and video calls. The telemedicine center has since evolved into a dedicated facility with separate areas for patient consultations and vitals check-up by nurses. The success of this initial center spurred the opening of additional centers in the same district, as well as in Muzaffarpur (Bihar) and Palghar and Tekwadi (Maharashtra).


Overcoming initial skepticism from the community, Kumar has managed to connect patients with renowned doctors from top-tier hospitals across India. These consultations are often free or at a nominal fee for the patients. Additionally, DigiSwasthya facilitates follow-up consultations, hospital referrals, and even financial aid in critical cases. The foundation has also partnered with diagnostic labs and medical stores to offer discounted services to patients.


Beyond telemedicine, DigiSwasthya actively reaches out to rural communities, educating them about the services available through their centers. This comprehensive approach has resulted in over 21,300 patients being served, with a network of 115 healthcare professionals on board. The foundation's outreach programs have directly or indirectly impacted over 650,000 individuals.


Looking ahead, Kumar's vision is to establish a network of 100 telemedicine centers in remote areas. He also plans to facilitate monthly visits from specialists to each center, further enhancing accessibility to high-quality healthcare. Funding remains a challenge, but Kumar's unwavering determination and the demonstrably positive impact of DigiSwasthya are attracting support from CSR funds, high-net-worth individuals, and a growing community of believers.


Sandeep Kumar's journey from cancer survivor to healthcare entrepreneur is an inspiration. DigiSwasthya's innovative approach is not only bridging the gap in healthcare access for rural communities but also empowering them to take charge of their well-being. By leveraging technology and building a robust support network, DigiSwasthya is paving the way for a healthier future for countless individuals in rural India.



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