Practo aims to vaccinate over one crore Indians as

Practo aims to vaccinate over one crore Indians as part of ‘Corporate Suraksha’ program

 

Employees from over 1,000 corporates across India will be vaccinated in the first round of this vaccination program

As India battles a deadly second wave of COVID-19 and the need for immunization intensifies, Practo today announced ‘Corporate Suraksha’, a corporate vaccination program for companies across the country. The registrations are now open (https://www.partnership.practo.com/suraksha) for corporates to enlist their employees and their family members for the inoculation. Additionally, corporates can use the same link to register for Practo’s wellness plans, as part of which employees get access to online doctor consultations across 22+ specialities, among other health benefits.

 

Over 500 corporates (approx. 10 lakh Indians) have expressed interest in joining the program in the first phase. Practo will be setting up camps and working with its strong network of hospitals, vaccinators, and supply chain companies among others in the healthcare ecosystem, to initiate the drive. In the coming days, vaccination programs will be run at hospitals, while special camps will be set up at corporate offices in 30+ cities across the nation.

 

Additionally, Practo will also be expanding this program to housing societies, apartment complexes, and other such communities; they can register here. Following the registration process, Practo will reach out to the respective owners and share details about administering the vaccines, appointment schedules, and the location where employees can get the jab.

 

Over the next few months, the company plans to scale this to over 1000 corporates and 1 crore Indians.

 

Dr Alexander Kuruvilla, Chief Healthcare Strategy Officer, Practo, said, “Centre’s decision to include every adult in the fourth phase of the vaccination drive is a welcome move. The country is battling a deadly second phase of the viral outbreak, and immunizing as many people as possible is the only way out of it. Blanket vaccination is critical. The government is constantly working on expanding the list of COVID-19 vaccination centres, and Practo is extending its full support to make sure that the programme is carried out quickly and efficiently.”

 

In addition to this vaccination program, the company also offers a comprehensive health and wellness plan to corporate employees, as part of which employees get premium 24*7 access to 25000+ verified doctors for instant online consultations across 22+ specialties, medicine delivery and medical tests services at home services. Over 150 corporates like L&T Financial Services, Marico, Hexaware Technologies,Tata Realty, Denave India, Telus International have availed these plans for their employees.

 

As per government directions, all individuals are required to be vaccinated twice - with a gap of six - eight weeks between the doses. They also need to continuously monitor their health during this period for possible side effects like fever and/or cold. In case they experience any discomfort, they must consult a doctor. Practo’s health and wellness plans come in handy in such cases.

Practo urges India to rise above doubts and seek experts

Practo urges India to rise above doubts and seek experts’
advice with its new campaign #HelloDoctor

Encourages India to video-consult a doctor at the very first sign of  medical symptom

●      This 360-degree campaign conceptualised by Spring Marketing Capital, powered by 6 films in 7 languages is set to dominate TV and all digital media platforms through 13k+ spots over the next ten weeks

 

 Every healthcare journey begins with the appearance of a symptom. And every symptom comes with a decision to be made: what to do next? Depending on whether the symptom is mild or severe, the patient or the caretaker ends up deciding the further course of treatment amidst looming doubts. Rooted in this thought, Practo, India’s leading digital healthcare company has launched its new TVC campaign,  #HelloDoctor to urge India to rise above doubts and seek an expert’s advice, just a video call away. The true essence of the campaign lies in the fact that there is no place for doubt when it comes to healthcare, and the course of treatment is best decided after consulting an expert.

This 10-week campaign, slated to go live this week will be powered by six films in seven different languages. 13000+ spots across 100+ channels in the country including TV & digital media (Youtube, facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more) would be covered as part of this consumer marketing campaign. Links to the TVCs: Link 1 and Link 2.

Conceptualised and developed by Spring Marketing Capital, the TVCs are inspired by real-life health conversations of different families who, though unsure of the health problem, decide the next course of action either by self-medication or ignoring the first sign of symptoms. Through a light-hearted take, these films encapsulate the healthcare journey of families, their reaction to symptoms; ultimately highlighting Practo’s expertise in online video consultations. With video consultations being available to people 24*7, access to thousands of verified doctors from across specialties has become easier. Practo intends to make each user’s journey to quality healthcare convenient, accessible and affordable.

Siddhartha Nihalani, VP - Products, Practo, said, “The key to good health is taking the right decision at the right time. The first course of action is the most important part of the healthcare journey and we often make the mistake of deciding that ourselves, inadvertently putting our and our families' health at risk. Consulting qualified doctors at the very first sign of a medical symptom can prevent healthcare problems from aggravating. Technology has helped us find a perfect solution in video consultations as it provides 24*7 easy access to verified doctors in less than a minute. It’s time we stop guessing and start consulting doctors at the onset of the very first medical symptom.” 

“The campaign reflects our commitment to enable quality healthcare access to a billion+ Indian through doctor consultations,” he adds.

In the first film, a family is seen discussing their grandmother’s skin problem. The mother and father are shown to be suggesting home remedies or over-the-top creams as initial treatment albeit with doubts while debating over the safety of visiting a hospital. Their daughter intervenes and asks them the million-dollar question - ‘Since it's a matter of grandmother’s health shouldn’t we ask the experts?’, and then goes on to help the grandmother video consult a doctor on Practo. The second film showcases a scenario in which the mother of a small boy tells her yoga teacher during her online class that her son has been suffering from stomach pain since the previous night. When the teacher asks her about the treatment, the mother replies about getting over-the-top medicines from a pharmacist. The teacher tells the mother to consult a doctor since it’s about the child’s health and goes on to explain how easy it is to video consult a doctor on Practo, as it’s similar to connecting with her on video classes. 

Arun Iyer, Founding Partner, Spring Marketing Capital, said, “Working on the new campaign for Practo was both exciting and challenging. Given the times we’re in, most medical messaging we hear revolves around Covid-19. But the truth is, the so-called “regular” health concerns haven’t gone anywhere, right? The tummy aches, the headaches, the skin concerns... We still need timely access to good healthcare. And that's where Practo comes in. At a time when stepping out of the house to see a doctor can feel like a health risk in itself, offering 24x7 video consultation with top doctors helps address symptoms & concerns early and safely.

The messaging of “Hello, Doctor” was borne of the universal nature of that line, as well as the sense of relief it brings. We can all relate to feeling a little bit more at ease when we get to speak to a doctor about the symptoms that concern us. It’s a sentiment that transcends languages, regions, et al. Simple, yet resounding,” Iyer adds.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has only accentuated people’s doubts in the health decisions they make for themselves, family and friends by self-diagnosing and self-medicating. After years of working on refining the telemedicine service, Practo has seen a strong acceptance of video consultations with doctors amongst users. Some of the reasons for this include easy accessibility to top doctors, effective way of solving common health problems without visiting clinics or hospitals, ability to help the patient instantly connect with a specialist during emergency situations and enabling regular healthcare consultations for the entire family from the comfort of their homes.

Practo launches mental health webinar series

Practo launches mental health webinar series for LGBT+ 

Part of Practo’s doctors-led educational webinar series, Practo Connect

So far, four webinars have been organized as part of Practo Connect, with more than 3000 doctors directly benefiting from it

In an effort to sensitize healthcare professionals to the mental health needs of the LGBT+ community amid the Covid-19 pandemic, India’s leading digital healthcare company, Practo is organizing a two-part webinar series led by mental health experts on LGBT+ from the Indian Psychiatry Society (IPS). Part of Practo’s doctors-led pandemic-focused educational webinar series Practo Connect, the webinar will take place on 16th August from 4pm - 5pm. The webinar is open for all doctors and healthcare professionals. To join these webinar sessions, please register here: Link or one can watch it directly on Practo YouTube channel.

In what has come to be a highly anticipated series offered by the company, the latest webinar will focus on sensitizing caregivers on the steps to be taken to provide the LGBT+ community with greater access to quality therapy and healthcare. Furthermore, it will also see an esteemed panel among the speaker list, including Dr. Dinesh Bhugra, Hon. Consultant Psychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Dr. Amrit Pattjoshi, Professor at HiTech medical college and Hospital Direct Council Member of IPS, Dr. Avinash De Souza, Consultant Psychiatrist in Mumbai Convener and Ex Co-Chair of the LGBT+ task force of IPS, and Dr. Prasad Raj Dandekar, HOD, Radiation Oncology, HN Hospital and Founder of HPQI India (Healthcare Professional of Queer India) will be part of the esteemed panel for this webinar. 

"The landmark Section 377 judgment may have heralded a new dawn for the LGBT+ community in India, but many are still known to face intense prejudice and social stigmas. While the negative impact of this on their mental well-being is undeniable, social distancing mandated by a worldwide pandemic has made it even more challenging for them to seek help. The webinar, curated with the leading minds in the industry, has been developed to understand and learn if we as doctors can do anything more to alleviate some of their mental health challenges during this time.” said Dr. Alexander Kuruvilla, Chief Health Strategy Officer, Practo.

Even as extended lockdown measures are lifted, stringent social distancing protocols and curbs on public transport indicate that affected people may remain isolated from their communities. Without strong support structures in place, anxiety and depression have become prevalent among members of the LGBT+ community. Coupled with the added stress of remaining healthy and the challenge of breaking barriers to seek quality healthcare, the LGBT+ community would benefit greatly with targeted intervention. With that in mind, Practo’s latest webinar will help the medical community understand the mental health needs of the LBGT+ community better, and work together on how this can be improved.

“The current pandemic has illuminated challenges and health disparities faced by minority communities in our country. Together with Practo, our efforts are aimed at developing an effective, equitable, and sustainable environment for all people, their well-being being the focus. We believe this initiative will highlight the importance of professional support and critical care required by different community members, especially the LGBT+, without any discrimination," said Dr. Amrit Pattojoshi, Professor Hi-Tech Medical College and Hospital, Direct Council Member IPS

Practo Connect continues to successfully capture some of the most pressing concerns, informative insights, and practical guidance on the clinical side for the medical fraternity as they navigate these uncertain times. So far, four webinars have been organized as part of Practo Connect, with more than 3000 doctors directly benefiting from it. Some of the senior-most doctors from countries including India, USA, and New Zealand have shared their experiences and knowledge on topics like response and treatment for Covid-19 patients, Telemedicine practices in India, COVID-19 preparedness in hospitals, and more. 

Practo salutes the doctors with

Practo salutes the doctors with its #BeingADoctor campaign

 This campaign aims to highlight the struggle, trials and tribulations, and the joy of being a doctor

Practo, India’s leading digital healthcare company has launched a campaign #BeingADoctor on the occasion of National Doctors’ Day. The campaign is a tribute to doctors by shining light on the sacrifices they’ve made in their lives; it portrays the commitment, grit, and determination it takes to become and be a doctor to patients every single day. This campaign is Practo’s effort to showcase and acknowledge the struggle, the trials and tribulations, responsibilities, and above all, the joy of being a doctor.

The video narrates the journey of the doctor from being a student to becoming an invincible warrior bringing life and hope to mankind during turbulent times. The film highlights the passion behind the purpose and the unsurmountable struggle and challenges one faces during the journey of becoming a doctor and their path to fulfilling their oath of showing compassion, care, and commitment to patients for the rest of their lives. On this doctor’s day, everyone at Practo proudly acknowledges the services of all the doctors, on behalf of the indebted public. The video is live and can be viewed on Practo’s Youtube, blog, and social media channels.

Link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnb56ZpfHBQ

Top doctors from India join hands with Practo

Top doctors from India join hands with Practo to launch

‘India Health Hour’

An hour everyday dedicated towards free online consultations with leading doctors in the country across 20+ critical specialties like gynaecology, pediatrics, dermatology

Hundreds of highly experienced doctors from across the country and specialities, have joined hands with Practo, India’s largest Telemedicine company, to launch ‘India Health Hour’ - a free online telemedicine solution for patients seeking quality care in times of pandemic. Launched less than a week ago, the program has registered   thousands of free online doctor consultations, and served close to 2500+ patients already. The team of highly experienced doctors include Dr Gourdas Chaudhuri, Dr. (Prof) Padmashree J M Hans, Dr. Nandita P Palshetkar, Dr Sharan Shivraj Patil, Dr Mohan Keshavamurthy, Dr Vishal Grover, Dr Nishith Chandra, Dr Anjali Nagpal, Dr Sandeep Naik, Dr Paritosh Pandey, Dr Prashanth S Urs, Dr Shekar Patil, and more, from hospitals and clinics like Fortis Healthcare, Manipal Hospitals, Apollo Hospitals, HCG, Sakra World Hospital, among others.

The program goes live every day between 5pm - 6pm on Practo’s app/web. The move is aimed at ensuring citizens have access to high quality care in these times of lockdown and social distancing. “Covid-19 has led to palpable unease among people. There’s helplessness and disappointment, especially because they’re unable to reach an experienced doctor. Social distancing calls for measures to avoid crowds, which could arise at medical establishments; but that should not stop people from consulting doctors online.” says, Dr. Prof Padma Shree J M Hans, ENT & Cochlear Implant, with 37 years of experience.

Encumbered by an extended lockdown, Indians are seeking solutions to access quality healthcare remotely. Technology has made it possible for people to access healthcare without having to travel or risking a potential exposure to infection. “I urge people to take care of their health and reach out to doctors like us even for the smallest of clarifications so that no symptom goes undiagnosed and gets treated on time. That is what the India Health Hour has been designed for”, added Dr Hans.

Dr. Vishal Grover, Ophthalmologist, commented on partnership with Practo, “Our association with Practo for an initiative like India Health Hour will help us reach out to more people and touch more lives to make them happier and healthier. In these testing times where mobility is restricted Telemedicine has emerged as a promising alternative to in house physical consults.” - Dr. Grover is the proprietor of Delhi-based Netraytan Hospital and has more than 25 years of experience.

India Health Hour enables patients to have a video/audio or text-based conversation with the doctors. Patients can also share images, reports for a detailed discussion. The program caters to a range of medical specialities, which includes: Dentistry, GPs, Orthopedics, ENT, Gynecology, Ophthalmology, Pediatrics, Physiotherapy, Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Cardiology, Psychiatry, Dermatology, General Surgery, Stomach and digestion, Diabetes and endocrinology, Neurology, Cancer.

Telemedicine has played an important role in ensuring high patient care standards across the country and is increasingly becoming the preferred first mode of communication between doctors and patients. This is corroborated by the fact that Practo’s telemedicine platform grew by 500% since March 1st.

Dr. Alexander Kuruvilla, Chief Healthcare Strategy Officer, Practo said, “We stand united with the country in its battle against Covid-19. Together with these highly experienced doctors we’re proud to launch India Health Hour, to provide access to quality healthcare to millions across the country. Doctors and medical fraternity at large are the real heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic, and we salute their unwavering support, sacrifice and commitment. We’re humbled to be their partner and provide them with a platform to offer their service to patients free of cost. We commit ourselves to continue doing all we can, and deliver uninterrupted access to quality care to all, 24*7.”

To avail the free consultation, patients can visit Practo – India Health Hour page (Link) and choose their speciality according to the health query. They will be connected with a doctor from the requested speciality for the consult in as less as 60 seconds. Built in features like image sharing, voice calling and video call (only on app) ensures that doctors get all the required information for a diagnosis, and refer for a physical visit if required. To ensure that as many patients as possible can get access to healthcare advice during the COVID-19 crisis, one free consultation is available per day per person.