“I work as a helper in a construction site. I cannot visit a hospital given my work schedule. When I heard that Indian Social Institute, Bangalore is organizing a free medical camp, I took special permission and came to the medical camp. It has been worth it. I had developed chronic body pain due to the nature of my work. The doctor intently listened to my story and suggested some physical exercises and gave me some medication for pain”, said Ms. Basanti, working in Bellandur as a helper in a construction site.

“After the pandemic, many of us lost our jobs, and our income has been irregular, meagre and uncertain. In case of sicknesses, getting treatment at hospitals is not affordable. Health camp has provided us with free health check-ups, and medicines. Doctors were very patient in listening to my health issues and they were compassionate. The fact that I was able to meet with a doctor and share my problems gave me so much mental relief”, said Ms. Fulmoni, a domestic worker from Orissa.

The Labour Migration Unit of Indian Social Institute, Bangalore in collaboration with St. Philomena’s hospital organized two medical camps at two migrant settlements on 17th and 19th June 2022, Bellandur and Dasarahalli, respectively. There were approximately 150 participants in each camp. Participants were migrant workers from the states of Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal, engaged in construction or providing services as security personnel, delivery persons, and drivers.

St Philomena’s medical team was composed of 4 Doctors, 4 MBBS students, 6 nurses and 6 assistants. Health check-up was done in three sections i.e. general check-up, gynaecological related issues, blood test and measurement of vital signs. Free medicines were given after the check-up.

Rosey Mukherjee

Facilitator of Programmes, Labour Migration Unit