Around 471 patients suffering from addiction of drugs and opiate products got treatment services with the help of 104 medical helpline in July, 2018. This was disclosed by Health & Family Welfare Minister Brahm Mohindra in a press communiqué released here today.Brahm Mohindra said that the Punjab Government has commenced a round-the-clock helpline number '104' to assist addicts who seek any information regarding treatment services under de-addiction programme. He said that breaking the taboo of social stigma, now patients are coming forward to get themselves admitted in the Rehabilitation & de-addiction centres. He said that instructions have been issued to concerned higher authorities of 104 Helpline number to deal every patient on priority basis under the de-addiction programme.The Minister said that the health department has initiated an awareness programme in all districts about 104 helpline to motivate addicts to come forward and get themselves treated to lead healthy life. “Today, anyone can get complete information about de-addiction programme along with counselling services through 104 medical help line service” he added.
He elaborated that as many as 70 patients have been provided the counselling under de-addiction programme from the Help-Line number 104 in July, 2018. He said that owing to the helpline the number of patients is expected to increase in August.Mr. Mohindra further said that under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister, Punjab Captain Amarinder Singh, the state government has decided to set up OOAT clinics at CHC level to provide free treatment services at door step of every village. It is need of the hour to address every complaint and query about de-addiction programme within time. He said that instructions have been issued to all Civil Surgeons in this regard and in any reported case of dereliction of duty on the part of any officer on this front, strict departmental action would be initiated.The Health Minister also appealed to the social welfare organisations to join hands with State Government to strengthen Anti Drug Campaign to restore pristine glory of Punjab.