Leh, Sept 20: Healthcare reached the remotest frontiers of Ladakh as the Multi-Superspeciality Camp at SNM Hospital concluded with resounding success. The camp, a collaboration between the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, revived the vision of its founder, Padma Shri Late Lama Lobzang, who initiated the effort nearly three decades ago to bring advanced medical care within the reach of Ladakh’s population.
Over a span of four days, more than 4,700 patients availed consultation and treatment across 28 super specialties. The camp became a beacon of hope for people from border areas near Pakistan and China, many of whom traveled over 200 to 300 kilometers to access healthcare services otherwise out of reach. Under the PMJAY Golden Card scheme, 42 total knee replacement surgeries were successfully carried out free of cost, restoring mobility and relief to patients who had long awaited such interventions.
The camp also witnessed a wide range of medical achievements. Fourteen plastic surgeries were conducted with the assistance of the senior consultant surgeon at SNM Hospital. Complicated gynecological procedures were performed in joint effort by AIIMS experts and local specialists. In addition, echocardiography services, four gastrointestinal and four urology surgeries were completed, while nearly 120 patients were referred to AIIMS New Delhi for further investigation and treatment in the coming months. Ophthalmic cases received due attention, over 150 endocrinology patients were followed up, and 32 endoscopies were performed by Dr. Yasin, a Leh-born gastroenterologist currently serving at SKIMS.
The collaborative spirit of the camp drew support from multiple quarters. Ashoka Mission and its General Secretary, Tashi Motup, played a pivotal role in coordinating specialist appointments and facilitating patient care. Volunteers from Skara and Shenam Tsogspa, social workers, and NCC cadets lent their service in food distribution, crowd management, and logistical support, while Rimo Expedition provided barricades ensuring smooth operations. Doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers from Leh’s health department worked tirelessly, cementing the camp’s success.
Acknowledging the contributions, the organizers extended gratitude to the Dean of AIIMS for consistently deputing doctors to Ladakh, making advanced care accessible in this high-altitude region. The camp not only reaffirmed the strength of partnerships in healthcare but also underscored the resilience of a community determined to extend medical lifelines across rugged terrains.
For the people of Ladakh, the initiative stood as more than just a medical camp—it was a promise of continuity, compassion, and care, carrying forward a legacy that has bridged the gap between remote lives and modern medicine.
