In a landmark step toward strengthening neurological care, the Government of Punjab and Roche Pharma India have launched NeuroSakhi, a first-of-its-kind patient support and awareness initiative.
The programme is designed to strengthen care and support systems for women living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the State. The programme aims to strengthen care pathways, awareness and support systems for women navigating this complex neurological condition.
The initiative was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER), Punjab Govt and Roche Pharma India at the Punjab Civil Secretariat in the esteemed presence of Balbir Singh (Health Minister - Punjab); Kumar Rahul (Principal Secretary – Health); Dr Hitinder Kaur ( Director – Health Services); Dr Rupinder Bakshi (Joint Director – Medical Education & Research) and Dr Dheeraj Khurana (Professor of Neurology, PGIMER Chandigarh).
An expert group led by the Department of Neurology at PGIMER Chandigarh will guide the development of evidence-based treatment pathways and recommendations for early diagnosis and timely treatment initiation. PGIMER Chandigarh will function as the central clinical hub, while Government Medical Colleges in Amritsar, Patiala and Faridkot will serve as regional spokes, enabling coordinated multidisciplinary care for Multiple Sclerosis across the State.
The initiative will work toward improving the affordability and accessibility of disease-modifying therapies and high-efficacy treatments through government formulary inclusion and sustainable funding mechanisms. State-wide training programmes will strengthen the ability of physicians to identify MS symptoms early, ensure timely referrals and adopt evidence-based management practices. As part of this effort, PGIMER Neurological Society will support training for Government Medical Colleges serving, through a hub-and-spoke model.
