Haryana introduces toll-free helpline for doctor appointments

Haryana has launched a new toll-free helpline number, 104, to help patients book doctor appointments at government hospitals. Health and medical education minister Arti Singh Rao inaugurated the initiative today in Panchkula. The aim is to reduce long queues and improve access to healthcare. Patients can now schedule their appointments from home by calling 104. Rao emphasized that this helpline will make the appointment process easier. It allows patients to avoid waiting in line at civil hospitals for consultations. In addition to booking appointments, the helpline will have other functions. It will help register complaints about healthcare services, which will be addressed within five days. The helpline will also provide information on medicines available in government hospitals. Furthermore, the helpline will support e-telemedicine services. This will enable patients in remote areas to consult doctors virtually. Chief medical officers (CMOs) from across Haryana joined the launch event via video conferencing, highlighting the statewide effort. Rao also announced that the existing e-telemedicine services will be integrated with the new helpline. This integration aims to ensure better coordination between online consultations and in-person visits to hospitals.