City hospital's diabetes helpline gets more than 25,000 calls in 4 years
The helpline is handled by a team of diabetes educators, physicians, dietitians, and data-monitoring experts. The helpline assists patients during hypoglycemic episodes, which happen when there is a sudden drop in blood sugar levels leading to fainting, confusion, or coma if not treated quickly, and interprets real-time Continuous Glucose Monitoring System data.
Health Minister Ma. Subramanian, who attended the event on Thursday, said the free helpline service, which has received over 25,000 calls so far, is praise-worthy.
Baraneedharan K., Senior Consultant Diabetologist, Kauvery Hospital, said during the 2021 COVID-19 wave, many people with diabetes could not visit hospitals, as the healthcare system was focused on managing the pandemic. To stay connected with patients during this time, Kauvery Hospital launched a free helpline, allowing people to receive free-of-cost medical guidance over the phone. Misinformation, especially through platforms like WhatsApp, can spread quickly. That is why providing access to accurate, expert advice is crucial,' Dr. Baraneedharan said.
Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Kauvery Group of Hospitals, said the initiative did not end with the COVID crisis; the helpline was extended beyond the pandemic as diabetes was a complex, multi-system condition requiring 24/7 attention.
According to the doctors, in one case, a woman with hypoglycemia was quickly stabilised through phone guidance to take fast-acting glucose, avoiding an emergency room visit.
In another, a pregnant woman with high-risk gestational diabetes, initially advised to terminate her pregnancy, was supported through continuous glucose monitoring and expert guidance via the helpline, leading to the safe delivery of healthy twins.
In 2024, the helpline managed 12,541 calls, a rise from 1,223 calls in 2021. Of these, 0.89% were emergencies, predominantly hypoglycemia, which were managed through immediate telephonic support and follow-ups.
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