Punjab's Health Scheme Funds Rs 4.15 Crore Worth Of Stroke Treatment For 914 Patients In 6 Months

Published 15 July 2026 · health

Punjab's Health Scheme Funds Rs 4.15 Crore Worth Of Stroke Treatment For 914 Patients In 6 Months Published By, Last Updated: July 15, 2026, 13:11

Punjab's Health Scheme Funds Rs 4.15 Crore Worth Of Stroke Treatment For 914 Patients In 6 Months Published By, Last Updated: July 15, 2026, 13:11 IST The data covers a range of stroke-related treatments, including emergency care, advanced imaging, intensive monitoring and prolonged hospitalisation. The data showed 48 cases of acute ischemic stroke, with treatment costs amounting to Rs 14.27 lakh. (Representational) Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna provided cashless treatment worth ₹4.15 crore to 914 stroke patients over the past six months, according to data released by the State Health Agency (SHA), highlighting the role of the state-funded health scheme in supporting patients facing medical emergencies. The data covers a range of stroke-related treatments, including emergency care, advanced imaging, intensive monitoring and prolonged hospitalisation. A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel bursts, depriving brain cells of oxygen. It is considered a medical emergency and can lead to death or long-term disability if treatment is delayed.

914 Cases Treated In Six Months According to SHA data, 914 stroke cases were treated under the scheme during the si month period, with the total cost of treatment amounting to Rs 4.15 crore. Among the various categories, acute ischemic stroke recorded the highest number of cases and the highest treatment expenditure. The data showed 48 cases of acute ischemic stroke, with treatment costs amounting to Rs 14.27 lakh. The records also indicated that acute stroke and acute ischemic stroke accounted for the bulk of treated cases, while haemorrhagic strokes were fewer in number but generally involved higher treatment costs per patient. Officials said a significant portion of the expenditure was linked to advanced diagnostic procedures such as CT scans and MRI, as well as additional interventions including tracheostomies and blood transfusions. Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said timely access to treatment is critical in emergencies such as stroke. “Healthcare schemes like Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna aim to ensure that patients receive timely treatment when they need it the most.

In emergencies like stroke, every minute matters, and financial support can make the difference between delay and lifesaving care," he said. The minister added that healthcare access must include protection against financial hardship during serious medical conditions. Doctors Stress Early Diagnosis Dr Harman Sobti, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon at Sobti Neuro Super Speciality Hospital and Mohandai Oswal Hospital in Ludhiana, said early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving outcomes for stroke patients. “Stroke is a medical emergency where early diagnosis and treatment can decide the patient’s future. Advanced imaging, intensive monitoring and timely intervention have changed outcomes," he said. Dr Sobti also stressed the importance of public awareness about warning signs such as sudden weakness, facial drooping and speech difficulties. According to him, ischemic stroke accounts for the largest share of treated cases, making advanced diagnostic tools such as CT scans and MRI crucial for effective management. He noted that complex stroke cases can impose a significant financial burden on families, making health insurance and government-backed support programmes important during medical emergencies.