Karnataka Health Department’s free second-opinion helpline for patients on complex joint surgeries
The Hindu
A second opinion may reveal non-surgical or less invasive options that could address the condition effectively, especially valuable for those initially advised to undergo extensive surgery, the Minister said.
Patients in Karnataka can now get a free second opinion for complex elective joint surgeries from government experts that will help them make informed decisions.
The department has set up a dedicated ‘second opinion’ helpline — 18004258330 — that will be functional round-the-clock under the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST), the nodal agency implementing the State’s health scheme — Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana-Chief Minister’s Arogya Karnataka (AB-PMJAY-CM’s ArK).
Joint replacement surgeries, like total knee replacement (TKR) and total hip replacement (THR), are increasing due to the growing prevalence of arthritis, age-related joint degeneration, and injuries. In such a situation, patients are often faced with dilemmas and have challenges to decide upon the best available treatment or surgery.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, along with top officials, who will launch the helpline on November 19, said this will ensure that every citizen receives comprehensive and personalised medical advice for managing joint-related issues.
This dedicated helpline service is aimed at providing evidence-based guidance by a group of experts to patients having knee and hip problems, and guide them to take an informed decision about the best available treatment option.
“The helpline will be established to offer a platform in Kannada and English where individuals can connect with our expert joint replacement surgeons, ask questions, receive second opinion on treatment plans, clear their myths and wrong beliefs of disease and treatment, surgical options, and rehabilitation programs,” the Minister said.
Patients can discuss if there are any alternatives to prevent surgery, information about surgery, and all the advantages and disadvantages if a patient goes through the journey of joint replacement surgery.
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