Nagpur, October 3, 2024: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur successfully launched a dedicated tele-helpline as part of the ICMR-funded project, "Tele-school Health-led Epilepsy Smart Schools in India: An Implementation Initiative with Mixed-Methods Assessment". The event was held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024, under the Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS Nagpur. The project aims to enhance epilepsy care in schools in urban and rural areas in the Nagpur district.

The tele-helpline number, 9405255166, will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. This service offers health education, epilepsy information, care management guidance, emergency management, appointment assistance, and tele-consultation for children with epilepsy, their parents, and teachers.

The event was graced by Shri Vinayak Mahamuni, Chief Executive Officer, Zilla Parishad, Nagpur, as Chief Guest, and Dr Prashant Joshi, Executive Director of AIIMS Nagpur, as Guest of Honor. Special Guests included Shri Siddheshwar Kaluse, Education Officer, Zilla Parishad, Nagpur; Dr Deepak Selokar, Medical Officer, Nagpur Municipal Corporation; Dr Meenakshi Girish, Head of Pediatrics, AIIMS Nagpur; Dr Pradeep Deshmukh, Head of Community Medicine, AIIMS Nagpur; and Dr Sulena Singh, HOD Neurology, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College & Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab, the Primary Investigator from the Faridkot centre. This event was led by Dr Shikha Jain, Associate Professor of the Pediatric department as the Principal Investigator with Dr Sujiv Akkilagunta, Associate Professor of the Community Medicine department as the Co-investigator of the project.

Concerns about epilepsy, a common neurological disorder that significantly affects children by disrupting their academic performance, social interactions, and emotional well-being, were discussed during the event. These challenges can lead to school dropouts, stigma, and isolation. Inadequate awareness about epilepsy management in schools further exacerbates these challenges. Research indicates that early diagnosis, proper care, and consistent management can help children with epilepsy lead more fulfilling and productive lives.

This project aims to bridge the gap by empowering schools to better manage epilepsy through this tele-health initiative. This research-based initiative provides critical support for children with epilepsy, ensuring they receive timely medical advice, education, and guidance on managing their condition within the school environment.

By integrating tele-health services, the project promotes a safer, more inclusive educational experience for students living with epilepsy. This helpline will provide much-needed support to students, parents, and educators in managing epilepsy effectively, ensuring these children can thrive in school and beyond.