Mumbai: The state govt has invited corporates to undertake social responsibility schemes in various districts to improve healthcare access for the people.This appeal was made at a meeting held as a part of the Maharashtra Impact and Sustainability Convergence Programme on Saturday, with state health minister Prakash Abitkar addressing national and international organisations involved in CSR activities. He also announced the setting up of a CSR coordination cell for the public health department.Representatives from European Union Chamber of Commerce, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, JSW Foundation, Aditya Birla Education Trust, Doctors For You, Indian Dental Association, Sanofi, Capgemini, Amazon, Cipla Foundation, Godrej Enterprises Group, were present at this meeting.Stating that many “positive changes have taken place in the health department in the past year, Abitkar said, “If additional resources are made available through CSR along with funds from the central and state govts, it will be of great help in changing the face of the health system.”He highlighted the role of CSR in operating boat ambulances in areas such as Nandurbar. Companies were invited to adopt districts, contribute in development of health infrastructure, repair of equipment, emergency services, medicine supply, diagnostic facilities, staff training and public awareness campaigns, said health officials.
