Udupi/DK: 'Namma Clinics' to be open in mornings and evenings on a pilot basis

In a bid to enhance accessibility to healthcare services for the working populace, the state government has altered the operational hours of a few of the ‘Namma Clinic’ facilities on a pilot basis. The initiative is set to benefit laborers in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

Previously, the clinics functioned from 9 am to 4 pm; however, this has been restructured for practicality. For the pilot run, ‘Namma Clinics’ situated at Bolur, Kerebail, and Kodikal in Mangaluru, along with Bidinagudde in Udupi district, will be operational from 8 am to 12 noon, and subsequently, from 4 pm to 8 pm.

The clinic at Kundapur is presently facing a shortage of medical practitioners, and alterations to its schedule will be implemented once staffing concerns are addressed, say officials.

Why timings changed?

Dr. H.R. Thimmaiah, the District Health Officer for Dakshina Kannada, emphasized the necessity of this change, stating that it aims to cater to the health needs of daily wage workers who are predominantly engaged from morning till evening, rendering it challenging for them to seek medical attention during conventional hours.

About Namma Clinics

“Namma Clinic” provides an array of healthcare facilities akin to those offered at primary health centers, encompassing maternal and child care. Additionally, it offers services in line with the National Health Mission of the Central Government, including screening for infectious diseases such as malaria.

The “Namma Clinics” have been operational in various locations, including Suterpet, Bolara, Bunder, Pacchanadi, Kodikal, Kunjathbail, and Meenkaliya under Mangaluru City Corporation limits, Gantalkatte of Moodubidiri, Kerebail of Ullal, Kodimbala of Kadaba, Bannur of Puttur and Duggaladka in Sullia. Furthermore, clinics are operational in Beedina Gudde, Kakkunje and Nittur in Udupi Kharvikeri, and TT Road of Kundapura.