Bangalore: On occasion of “World Heart Day”, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, launched an advanced SOS QR code, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Education program aimed at saving lives during medical emergencies. The main objective of the launch was to ensure every critical patient receives timely assistance during the “Golden Hour”. QR Code and CPR Launched by Dr. G. Parameshwara, Karnataka Home Minister and Dinesh Gundu Rao, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, along with Dr. Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman of Manipal Hospitals. This groundbreaking service of detecting the accurate location of the patient in need and providing ambulance service underscores the hospital’s dedication to transforming Bengaluru into a Heart Smart City. In a symbolic gesture, Manipal Hospital has also transformed traffic signals into heart-shaped symbols, underlining their commitment to heart health awareness.
The trend that was set by branding red heart signals last year at key traffic junctions is reinitiated at 37 traffic signals this year as well, with the support of Bangalore City Traffic Police and BBMP. These signals have SOS QR codes stationed for easy access to the ambulance service. The heart-shaped signal at the traffic junction is a sign of reminder to everyone that every life counts and not to neglect their own hearts.
As per data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 47% of cardiac arrest fatalities occur prior to a patient’s arrival at the hospital. The key to saving lives during heart attacks lies in delivering prompt assistance such as CPR during the golden hour. Hence, keeping this in mind Manipal Hospital launched the QR code and proposed to the Government of Karnataka to make cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) education mandatory. Including this subject in the curriculum of educational institutions, including schools, will make the community capable of providing critical assistance during emergencies.
The QR code is a cutting-edge digital innovation. Manipal Hospital is strategically positioning the QR codes at key traffic intersections, apartments, and a few vehicles for easy access during emergencies. Patients or their caregivers can easily scan these codes using their Android and iOS devices. iOS users can easily access the code through their device's camera, while Android users can avail of the service through the Google Lens App. The QR code will seamlessly provide real-time patient location information to the nearest Manipal Ambulance Response Service (MARS) and 108 ambulance team. These ambulances will be strategically stationed at various key points throughout the city. Notably, Manipal Hospitals commitment to this service extends beyond its own facility, as both MARS and 108 will transport patients to the nearest hospital.
Dr. G. Parameshwara, commented, This initiative by Manipal Hospitals is a remarkable step towards ensuring the well-being of our citizens. Immediate medical support during medical emergencies can be a matter of life and death. The SOS QR code and CPR education program will undoubtedly save lives and strengthen our community’s resilience.
Dinesh Gundu Rao, has commented, “Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, has taken a significant stride towards public health and safety with the launch of the SOS QR Code and the CPR education program. The The hospital’s commitment to ensuring prompt assistance during the “Golden Hour” is commendable.
