Subsidized tests for alcoholics in Nagaland

Toshiba Jamir inchage NEAN, Dr Z Kheshito Zhimo, Medical Superintendent DHD and Bokatoli Kinimi. (Photo Courtesy: NEAN)

Dimapur, March 19 (MExN): Taking a serious note of the difficulties being faced by alcoholics for the treatment of alcohol related health issues in the state, North East Artist Network (NEAN) Drop In-Center (DIC) for alcoholics and District Hospital Dimapur (DHD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 18 to provide subsidized clinical test for treatment to the alcoholic community.

As per the MoU, clinical tests such as, Kidney Function Test (KFT) and Liver Function Test (LFT) will be provided at the subsidized rate of 150/- per test at DHD which is 50% less than the actual cost at DHD and the subsidized rate which is provided through NEAN DIC is much reasonable comparatively, according to the NEAN report.

To avail this service, the beneficiaries will need to contact NEAN DIC for ‘Clients Referral Card’ without which service cannot be availed. The Drop in center will also initiate to provide free Hepatitis C virus medicines for the needy.

Apart from other substance abuse related issues, alcoholism in Nagaland remains a huge public health concern because of the illegal inflow, and consumption of spurious and highly adulterated liquor, the NEAN said in its statement.

The initiative of DHD and NEAN may go a long way in meeting the needs of the alcoholic community considering the level of treatment facilities required, it added.