AIIAS Champions Community Health in India’s Shimla Region

Students and faculty of the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) took action in Himachal Pradesh, India, partnering with medical professionals at Simla Sanitarium and Hospital to deliver crucial health care to underserved communities from July 1-5. The volunteers worked alongside Conservation Himalayas, a local NGO dedicated to health, education, and nutrition. Together with local authorities, they provided comprehensive medical services to factory workers, village residents, office employees, students, and researchers, making a tangible impact on the lives of many.

AIIAS played a pivotal role, with Edward Nathan, chair of the Public Health Department at AIIAS, leading the team of medical professionals from the local hospital. “Our aim was to offer holistic health care services and promote wellness through preventive measures,” Nathan said. The participation of AIIAS students and faculty spanned various activities, from general health check-ups and specialist consultations to health education and personalized counseling. Over the five days, the camp reached numerous individuals, addressing critical health issues and providing much-needed medical attention.

The camp kick-started with a health check-up for factory workers, focusing on detecting chronic conditions and offering specialist consultations. Nathan described the activities: “Our team provided essential services, including dental care and eye check-ups, significantly benefiting more than 70 employees.” On the second day, the camp served nearly 200 villagers in the town of Nehara, offering comprehensive screenings and consultation. Sam Gnanaraj, chief medical officer at Simla Sanitarium, noted, “We identified numerous cases of hypertension and diabetes, emphasizing the need for ongoing medical attention.”

The third day saw a significant turnout of 185 police personnel undergoing thorough medical examinations. “Regular check-ups are vital for our police force, and this initiative highlighted our commitment to their well-being,” Atul Verma, Himachal Pradesh’s director general of police, said. The camp also provided essential health services to 120 employees and conducted a special health education program for students in a local public school. “Educating young minds about healthy habits is crucial for their future well-being,” Aruna Kumari Negi, community dietary counselor, said.

The final day focused on offering personalized health consultations and preventive care advice to the community and the local team. “Our goal was to ensure that every participant left with a clear understanding of their health status and steps to improve it,” Nathan said.

AIIAS’s involvement in this outreach program underscores the institution’s dedication to preparing its public health students for real-world challenges in global health. Students were able to apply their academic knowledge in practical settings, develop cultural competence, and engage in meaningful community service.

“Our participation in the Shimla medical camp is a testament to our mission of developing leaders who are mission-minded and service-oriented,” Nathan said. “It not only enhances our students’ learning experience but also instills a deep sense of compassion and responsibility towards underserved communities.”

The original version of this story was posted by Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies.