Caritas India recently organized a transformative health camp under its Gram Nirman Urban program, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to supporting People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in our community. This remarkable event, which drew 70 participants, including 30 men and 40 women, as well as members of High-Risk Groups such as MSMs and FSWs, offered a comprehensive range of services tailored to the unique needs of PLHIV.

The urban component of Gram Nirman, implemented in East Delhi, focuses specifically on the Community Based Rehabilitation of People living with HIV/AIDS. This aspect of the program aims to address the unique challenges faced by People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in urban slum settings. The urban initiative covers 18 new slums in the East Delhi district, an area located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River bordering Uttar Pradesh. Key activities include training on home-based care, developing strategies for healthy contacts and drug adherence, and facilitating awareness sessions on welfare schemes.

This health camp was organised to fill the access gap between services and the people. The health camp was led by Dr. Amit Pathak from GTB Hospital and Dr. Abdul Wahid, a private physician, who brought their expertise and empathy to the forefront. Their approach went beyond mere medical examinations, encompassing vital aspects such as thorough health check-ups, one-on-one consultations, personalized dietary guidance, and essential counselling services. This multifaceted approach ensures that participants receive not just medical care, but also the knowledge and support needed to lead healthier, more empowered lives.

Dr. Abdul Wahid commented, “A health camp organized by Caritas India will help PLHIV. As they are already immune compromised, they are prone to Opportunistic infections & STIs (sexually transmitted infections). So, on a regular interval, a health camp will benefit them and their family.” This statement underscores the critical importance of such initiatives for the PLHIV community.

The impact of the health camp is best illustrated through the words of Manoj, one of the participants. He shared, “Due to rush and limited time with doctors in hospitals, we often fail to gather all the necessary information. This health camp helped me learn more about my health issues in detail and how to maintain my health with nutritious food on a limited budget.” He added, “The doctor explained how taking medicines on time helps improve my health. This health camp was really beneficial, and such camps should be organized regularly.”

What sets Caritas India’s health camp apart is its focus on education and empowerment. By providing detailed information about health management, nutrition, and medication adherence, the camp equips PLHIV with the tools they need to take control of their health journey. This approach not only addresses immediate medical needs but also fosters long-term independence and improved quality of life for the participants.

The health camp is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the lives of the participants. By providing essential medical care, counselling, and knowledge, Caritas India is not just treating symptoms but fostering independence and improved quality of life for PLHIV. This holistic approach to healthcare demonstrates the organization’s commitment to creating sustainable change in the lives of those it serves.

Caritas India continues its mission to support marginalized communities and events like this health camp demonstrate its profound impact of targeted, compassionate healthcare initiatives. The success of this camp underscores the need for regular, accessible health services for PLHIV and other vulnerable groups. For civil society organizations, CSR initiatives, donors, and government bodies, Caritas India’s health camp serves as a powerful example of effective community health intervention. It highlights the potential for collaborative efforts to create meaningful change in the lives of those who need it most.