Gaya: Quality healthcare is set to become more accessible for rural communities in Bihar as IFFCO Kisan Finance, in partnership with NGO Utthaan, launches a new health initiative in Gaya. The programme, backed by the company’s Arogya Vistaar CSR initiative, will start in 15 locations across Gaya district, with plans to expand further across the state.
This rural health programme introduces an Integrated Rural Dig-Physical Healthcare Services (IRDHS) model, developed with digital healthcare provider DocOnline. The system blends digital clinics, mobile clinic vans, and assisted teleconsultation services. Local women will be trained to support telemedicine delivery, strengthening both community health and employment.
The initiative tackles long-standing healthcare access challenges in rural areas, especially where distance and limited infrastructure prevent timely treatment. It will also hold preventive health check-up camps to catch illnesses early and provide targeted care for vulnerable groups like women, adolescent girls, children, and senior citizens.
By connecting rural patients with doctors and specialists based in urban centres, and providing diagnostic services and medicines locally, the model reduces the need to travel for healthcare by up to 90%.
Anjaneya Prasad Prabhala, CEO of IFFCO Kisan Finance, said, "At IFFCO Kisan Finance, the focus has always been on bringing financial inclusivity to the last mile, ensuring even the most remote communities can access essential financial services. By bringing quality healthcare to underserved communities, we will support their overall well-being, helping them achieve a healthier, more sustainable future.”
Rajneesh Jain, Secretary of Utthaan, added, "Partnering with DocOnline to bring integrated digital and physical healthcare services is a milestone in Utthaan’s mission to uplift rural communities. This initiative will significantly transform healthcare delivery and ensure long-term health improvements for the people of Gaya."
Manasije Mishra, Managing Director of DocOnline, said, "We are excited about this initiative that will reshape rural healthcare delivery. The IRDHS model by DocOnline blends technology with personalized care, enabling us to bring high-quality healthcare to even the most remote regions. This programme will be crucial in reducing healthcare disparities and ensuring specialized care reaches underserved communities.”
With its dig-physical approach, the programme aims to build a sustainable health delivery network that can serve as a blueprint for similar efforts across the country.
BI Bureau
