anandifoundation.org.in

Free Health Camp - Vasant Kunj

Overview and Objectives

The foundation’s primary aim was to bridge healthcare access gaps for residents of Vasant Kunj, Thane, especially those unable to afford routine check-ups. By situating the camp alongside the festive Ganeshotsav celebrations, the initiative leveraged high local footfall to reach families who might otherwise delay or forgo preventive care. Physicians, dentists, and optometrists volunteered their time to deliver comprehensive screenings, early detection of chronic conditions, and tailored health education, laying the groundwork for healthier lifestyles year-round.

Anandi Foundation 2

 

Medical Stations and Activities

General Medical Evaluations

A team of General practitioners from Madhavbaug, Vasant Vihar, Thane and a nurse-aid managed the medical evaluation booth. Each participant underwent vital-sign measurements—blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and body mass index—using calibrated digital monitors. Capillary blood glucose testing helped identify pre-diabetic states, and brief history-taking sessions flagged symptoms of respiratory, cardiovascular, or gastrointestinal concerns. Physicians provided personalized lifestyle recommendations, covering diet modifications, stress management, and follow-up testing for those with borderline readings.

Dental Check-Up

The dental station, staffed by Drs Uday Puranik and Dr Sudiksha Puranik from the Puranik’s Dental Clinic and Implant Centre, VasantKunj, Thane provided comprehensive oral screenings and preventive interventions. Each participant received a detailed examination to identify cavities, gum inflammation, and early signs of oral lesions.They conducted interactive “notice–clean–protect” demonstrations, showing attendees how to inspect their own teeth for plaque, brush with proper technique, and choose tooth-friendly snacks. Participants also received personalized referral cards for follow-up cleanings and restorative treatments at partnered clinics. This approach emphasized early intervention and empowered residents with practical skills to maintain long-term oral health.

Eye Examination

An optometry team led by Optometrist Ronald Noronha from Trendy Eyewear Optician and Contact Lens clinic utilized portable Snellen charts and handheld autorefractors to assess visual acuity and refractive errors. For individuals needing vision correction, the optometrist conducted detailed refraction tests to determine precise lens prescriptions. Attendees with significant refractive errors were counselled on frame selection and lens care; temporary trial frames helped participants understand the improvement in clarity. The station also offered advice on reducing digital-eye strain, including the 20-20-20 rule (taking a 20-second break to view something 20 feet away every 20 minutes).

Attendance and Demographics

The camp drew a broad cross-section of the community. Young children, escorted by parents, learned basic hygiene at the dental booth; school-age participants eagerly tested their vision and received colorful eye-care leaflets. Working-age adults, many having busy schedules, appreciated the quick screenings and immediate feedback. Elderly attendees, some accompanied by grandchildren, benefited from blood-pressure monitoring and were referred for further evaluation when hypertension or cataract risk was detected. Overall, the camp fostered an atmosphere of intergenerational participation, strengthening community bonds 

Impact and Feedback

90% of attendees at the health camp rated the services “excellent” or “very good.” Several hypertensive participants, alerted to elevated readings, pledged to seek follow-up care. At the dental station, a few children were identified with early-stage cavities and scheduled for follow-up treatments. Several individuals received new eyeglass prescriptions, and the local optics vendor offered discounted rates to facilitate timely access. Qualitative feedback highlighted the convenience of “one-stop” health services and appreciation for the friendly, volunteer-driven setup.

Community Engagement and Next Steps

The camp’s success was underpinned by collaboration between the foundation and the Vasantkunj cultural association committee organizing the Ganeshotsav pandal. Volunteers directed foot traffic, translated health advice into Marathi and Hindi, and arranged logistics for equipment setup. 

Future Steps 

Building on this momentum, the foundation plans quarterly mini-camps focusing on maternal health, chronic-disease management, and pediatric nutrition. Partnerships are being considered with local clinics to ensure continuity of care for referrals, and discussions are underway to introduce mobile dental units for routine school visits. Future eye-care drives may include free spectacles distribution for low-income seniors, ensuring sustained community well-being.