In the remote villages of the so-called Indian carpet belt there is not enough medical care. Label STEP has begun to change this together with project partners in three regions: Now mobile medical practices come to the villages regularly and therefore secure medical care for thousands of people.

Medical care is a big problem in the partly very remote villages of the Indian carpet belt. The next hospitals are often far away and the population lacks money. Therefore, in 1999 together with the partner organisation HelpAge Label STEP has brought to life the first two "Mobile Medicare Units" (MMUs). Since that time both cars with a doctor, a nurse and basic medical equipment come to the villages of the region of Bhadohi on a regular basis. Once a week the MMUs are stationed in every village for half a day. Treatments are carried out and counselling interviews are held. The patients pay a small cost contribution for the consultation.

Expansion of a story of success

The MMUs in Bhadohi are a crucial success; during the first one and a half years they recorded 19'000 treatments! Label STEP decided to expand the successful project to other regions as well: In 2000 the mobile health system was also introduced in Allahabad and since 2002 the region of Sonabhadra is supplied in the same manner. Nurse Yoti who is part of the team of one of the MMUs in Allahabad has no doubts: “Without our mobile medical care most people from our region would have no possibility to see a doctor.” In heavy cases the MMU doctor transfers the patients to hospitals, so that they receive the necessary treatment there. Even after nearly ten years the concept of the mobile health care is still successful: The MMUs in Bhadohi could be handed over to the partner organisation, in both other regions Label STEP continues the projects. Hereby more than 140'000 people could be treated up to this day!