Free Knee, Hip and Shoulder replacement surgery camp inaugurated at QAAM Hospital

KARGIL: A five-day free knee, hip and shoulder replacement surgery camp commenced at Qamar Ali Akhone Memorial (QAAM) Hospital, Kurbathang, on Tuesday, with specialists from Medanta–The Medicity, Gurugram, joining hands with local healthcare institutions to provide advanced orthopaedic treatment to patients from Kargil and adjoining areas.

The camp, organised by Baqirya Health Care and Research Centre—the health wing of Imam Khomeini Memorial Trust (IKMT) Kargil—in collaboration with the Health Department, Kargil, was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Rakesh Kumar. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Dr. Atique Vasudev as the Guest of Honour.

Surgical procedures began immediately after the inauguration, with the camp scheduled to continue until July 4. Organisers said eligible patients requiring knee, hip and shoulder replacement surgeries would receive treatment free of cost during the five-day initiative.

Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries emphasised the need to make specialised orthopaedic healthcare accessible to residents of remote and underserved regions. They appreciated the collaborative efforts of the organising institutions and the visiting team of specialists in extending advanced surgical services to patients who otherwise face limited access to tertiary healthcare.

The organisers said the initiative seeks to reduce the burden on patients requiring complex orthopaedic procedures by making specialised treatment available locally, thereby minimising the need for referrals outside the district.

They also acknowledged the support extended by the District Administration, the Health Department, the management of QAAM Hospital, Medanta–The Medicity, doctors, paramedical personnel and volunteers for facilitating the smooth conduct of the humanitarian healthcare initiative.

The camp is expected to benefit a substantial number of patients from Kargil and neighbouring areas, reflecting continuing efforts to strengthen access to specialised healthcare services in Ladakh’s remote regions.