HCMCT Manipal Hospital honors ‘Heroes on Wheels’ with ambulance parade on 78th Independence Day

New Delhi: In a celebration of India’s 78th Independence Day, HCMCT Manipal Hospital in Dwarka paid homage to the unsung ‘Heroes on Wheels’—ambulance drivers who play a critical role in saving lives.

The hospital organized a moving tribute, featuring a convoy of 100 ambulances that traveled 11 kilometers through the streets of Dwarka. This symbolic parade was a salute to the bravery and dedication of these medical warriors, emphasizing the vital role of timely emergency medical services.

In addition to the parade, the hospital honored the 100 ambulance drivers who work tirelessly around the clock to ensure patient safety. These frontline warriors were recognized with free health checkups and felicitations, highlighting their crucial role in the healthcare system. The tribute was likened to the vigilance and dedication of soldiers who guard the nation’s borders.

Extending the spirit of Independence Day, the hospital has launched ‘15 Days of Health & Wellness,’ a community initiative running until August 20, 2024. This program offers discounted evening OPD consultations and essential lab tests for just ₹78 each, encouraging the community to prioritize their health and well-being as part of the hospital’s mission to build a healthier nation.

Dr. Sushant Chhabra commented, “The foundation of a robust emergency medicine department relies on a reliable ambulance service and strong pre-hospital care. These essential components ensure the timely transportation and appropriate medical attention for patients in critical situations, significantly impacting outcomes and saving lives. Today’s ambulance parade showcased the importance of these services, leaving a significant impact on our mission to improve emergency care and save lives.”

Viji Varghese, Hospital Director at HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, echoed these sentiments, stating, “The ambulance parade signifies our commitment to patient safety and emergency preparedness. Our ambulance team are our frontline warriors, and today, as we celebrate our nation’s independence, we also honor the tireless efforts of our healthcare teams who work around the clock to protect our community.”

The event underscored the preparedness of Manipal Ambulance Response Services (MARS) and its partners to respond swiftly and effectively in emergencies. The parade was flagged off by key hospital leaders, including Pramod Alagharu, Regional COO for the North and West regions of Manipal Hospitals, Dr. Sushant Chhabra, Cluster Head of Emergency Medicine for the same regions, and Dr. Y.K. Mishra, Chairman of the Manipal Institute of Cardiac Sciences.