Osmania General Hospital (OGH), Telangana’s largest and oldest tertiary care institution, has introduced round-the-clock patient assistance support services for the first time. This new initiative includes a dedicated Help Desk and Helpline to assist patients with mobility, navigation, and other essential care needs.
24/7 Support for Critical and Routine Patient Needs
As per the press release, the launch of these services is a major step forward in improving patient care at OGH. With over 25% of medical emergencies occurring late at night, and a dialysis center that operates continuously for 120–130 patients daily, the need for round-the-clock assistance has become increasingly critical. The Help Desk will also support multiple elective surgeries and intra-unit patient transfers throughout the day and night.
Strategic Partnership to Enhance Public Healthcare
The Basheer & Sarwar Babu Khan Human Development Trust (BSB HDT) has pledged to support the Help Desk initiative. Helping Hand Foundation (HHF), which has a decade-long history of working in government hospitals, will serve as the implementation partner. This collaboration is set to significantly enhance the quality of patient services at OGH.
Dedicated War Room for Patient Services
The hospital has now transformed the unused space next to the ramp in the Outpatient (OP) Block near the casualty area into a centralized ‘War Room’ facility.This hub will coordinate all patient assistance efforts and operate via a dedicated Helpline number: 7780288622.
Volunteers Deliver Compassionate, Timely Support
A well-trained team of over 20 HHF volunteers, working in three shifts, will ensure uninterrupted assistance. Their responsibilities include providing wheelchairs and stretchers. They also help patients navigate the hospital and support OPD operations. Additionally, they assist unknown or homeless patients. The team will work closely with OGH’s social health workers to help homeless individuals receive dignified care. This includes cleaning them, providing clothing, and bringing them to doctors for treatment.
Improving Emergency Response and Saving Lives
Dr. Rakesh Sahay, Superintendent of OGH, emphasized the importance of the service:
“Timely access to stretchers and wheelchairs, especially during late hours, can be lifesaving. With 24/7 support now in place, we will significantly improve emergency response and overall patient experience.”
Strengthening the Public Health System
Mr. Salman Babu Khan of BSB Human Development Trust highlighted the broader goal:
“We aim to strengthen the public health system by backing organizations like HHF. With over 80 community health workers deployed across 15 government hospitals in the first year, our mission is to improve access and quality of care.”
Formal Inauguration Marks a Milestone
Mr. Salman Babu Khan formally inaugurated the 24/7 Help Desk at Osmania General Hospital. Dr. Rakesh Sahay and other senior hospital officials attended the event. This initiative marks a significant advancement in patient-centric care at one of Telangana’s most vital healthcare institutions.