Patients in Karnataka can now get a free second opinion for complex elective joint surgeries from government experts that will help them make informed decisions. The department has set up a dedicated ‘second opinion’ helpline — 18004258330 — that will be functional round-the-clock under the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST), the nodal agency implementing the State’s health scheme — Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana-Chief Minister’s Arogya Karnataka (AB-PMJAY-CM’s ArK). Joint replacement surgeries, like total knee replacement (TKR) and total hip replacement (THR), are increasing due to the growing prevalence of arthritis, age-related joint degeneration, and injuries.
In such a situation, patients are often faced with dilemmas and have challenges to decide upon the best available treatment or surgery. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, along with top officials, who will launch the helpline on November 19, said this will ensure that every citizen receives comprehensive and personalised medical advice for managing joint-related issues. This dedicated helpline service is aimed at providing evidence-based guidance by a group of experts to patients having knee and hip problems, and guide them to take an informed decision about the best available treatment option.
“The helpline will be established to offer a platform in Kannada and English where individuals can connect with our expert joint replacement surgeons, ask questions, receive second opinion.