New Delhi, Oct 30: The award recognizes impactful social initiatives that have enhanced healthcare across India, reaching communities throughout the nation.
During the 2023-24 financial year, Smile Foundation provided 1.3 million treatments through its range of curative, preventive, and promotive healthcare services. These services were delivered via a network of 93 Mobile Medical Units, eight Mobile Telemedicine Units, four Mobile Dental Units, three stationary clinics, and several Multi-Speciality Health Camps. Operating in 1,100 communities across diverse areas—urban, rural, mountainous, and desert—in 73 districts (including 26 aspirational districts) in 17 states, this program has extended essential healthcare to underserved populations.
This year alone, 1.06 million individuals received services at their doorsteps, with 75% of beneficiaries being women and children. Free services include consultations with qualified doctors, pathology services, medication, and referrals.
Smile Foundation’s healthcare initiative aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, provide doorstep healthcare access, foster healthier behaviors, enhance maternal and child health awareness, and strengthen government facility linkages for advanced care. The program also seeks to improve access to local public health services and enhance government healthcare delivery.
The initiative aligns with ten out of twelve mandated services under Ayushman Bharat. In partnership with the National Digital Health Mission, Smile Foundation employs technology like telemedicine and smart diagnostics in aspirational districts, utilizing platforms like e-Sanjeevani to connect patients to healthcare via smartphones or nearby Health and Wellness Centers.
Santanu Mishra, Co-founder and Executive Trustee of Smile Foundation, expressed gratitude for the Best CSR Excellence in Healthcare Award from ASSOCHAM, saying, “This award honors the dedicated efforts of our healthcare teams across India.” This recognition highlights Smile Foundation’s impact on bringing healthcare to aspirational districts and remote tribal areas, addressing complex challenges, and reaching some of India’s most underserved communities. Beyond healthcare services, Smile Foundation has run comprehensive awareness programs on child health, maternal and elderly care, communicable diseases, and lifestyle education, complementing government health initiatives effectively.
