The Goa governments flagship ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) programme, which was introduced three years ago to reduce heart-related mortalities, will be showcased during meetings scheduled to be hosted by the state from this month. As many as 2,573 patients have benefited from thrombolysis and 10,874 have availed of critical electrocardiograms (ECG) free of cost under the programme that has garnered national appreciation for being a model of digital Health innovation.
STEMI is a serious heart attack that occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is completely blocked for a prolonged period, resulting in extensive damage to a large part of the organ.
It can be prevented through thrombolysis, an intervention by which a major blood clot is dissolved quickly, helping to restart blood flow. Thrombolysis has the potential to avert a heart attack that could otherwise be deadly.
Goas STEMI programme is being implemented at select primary health centres through the GMC and the Bengaluru-based Tricog Health Services Pvt Ltd.