The mobile unit found Jonda’s diabetes early, and medicines helped him recover quickly.

70 year old Jonda Ram, hails from the tribal village of Togi in Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh.

In the last few years, Jonda Ram was suffering from extreme fatigue, increased thirst and frequent urination. Family members also noted that small wounds on his body were taking a long time to heal.

Owing to the remoteness of his village, age and financial constraints, he was unable to travel to the closest hospital. Unaware that he was suffering from Diabetes, Jonda resorted to visiting traditional healers who recommended random medicines for his symptoms. Despite adhering to the instructions of the healer, his symptoms developed rapidly and his health deteriorated.

Discussing his health with a friend, he learned that the GMR Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) visited his village once a month. The MMU is a clinic on wheels that provides primary health care services for population living in remote, inaccessible, un-served, and underserved areas with the objective of taking health care service to doorsteps of the people. An MMU is staffed by a Doctor, a Pharmacist and a driver. Often there is also a Social Worker/health worker to assist team.

The following month, Jonda promptly attended the health camp conducted by the MMU, where the medical team diagnosed his condition as diabetes mellitus. Testing showed that his sugar level was 380 mg/dl, which was way higher than the normal level of 200 mg/dl.

Jonda and his family were overwhelmed by the diagnosis, but were given counselling and awareness on the subject. He was given free medicines for his diabetes and his family members were advised to monitor his diet.

His free treatment continued, and three months later, his blood sugar level had dropped to 180 mg/dl. The results cheered Jonda who was grateful for the support he received from the GMR MMU medical team.