
During the state’s Republic Day celebration on January 26, in the presence of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Nagaland Governor La Ganesan officially launched Chief Minister’s Mobile Operation Theatre (CM-MOT) to the remote and rural areas, consisting of advanced surgical and healthcare services. This initiative was taken to combat the challenges faced by people from remote and rural areas in accessing quality healthcare.
Under the leadership of Kohima town MLA, a team of medical professionals led by Dr. Tsielhoutuo Rhetso, successfully performed 24 minor and major surgeries on January 27, all free of cost.
The medical team comprises anesthesiologists, surgeons, technicians, pharmacists, drivers, private practitioners, and government doctors, all committed to serving the public.
Investigation like Ultrasound, CT Scan, X-rays etc which cost only a few thousand, but they spend huge expenditures due to travel or other amenities.
Dr. Tsielhoutuo Rhetso, CM-MOT
CM-MOT is a mobile hospital on wheels equipped with advanced medical technology including keyhole surgery capabilities and portable diagnostic tools (ultrasound, X-ray, endoscopy, and blood testing equipment). Through the funds from the Chief Minister, XUV vehicles are also arranged to navigate tough surfaces, particularly during monsoon seasons.
Advantages of MOT:
Doorstep healthcare facility
Even the most remote communities can receive specialized medical care
Rural and remote communities can now benefit from PMJAY and CMHIS schemes
Reducing travel expenses for rural patients
Equipped with modern diagnostic and surgical tools
The medical team will be undertaking different kinds of surgeries daily. Highlighting the team’s commitment to bringing medical intervention to remote locations, Dr. Tsielhoutuo Rhetso expressed particular satisfaction over treating a four-month-old infant with a cleft lip.
Despite having all the facilities and manpower, CM-MOT team faces challenges like:
Post-operative care - As the local medical staff in remote areas do not usually handle surgical cases, they require the mobile team to stay back 24-48 hours to monitor post-operative patients.
Availability of sterile operating rooms - The team seeks community support to utilize clean spaces such as panchayat halls or schools
However, this project aspires to ensure accessible healthcare to all regardless of location in Nagaland. Depending on the availability of funds, the mobile team will continue on a monthly or 2-3 weeks basis, prioritizing regions with limited medical facilities.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Dr. Disha Merlyn Mathias/MSM)