As more young people relocate for education and work, ensuring timely medical care for elderly parents has become increasingly challenging in Tamil Nadu.
To address this issue, Dr Swaminathan from Madurai launched the Doctor on Wheels initiative, which brings healthcare services directly to patients’ residences.
Many elderly individuals face difficulty reaching hospitals, particularly when their children reside abroad or in distant cities. Recognising this gap, Doctor on Wheels utilises a specially designed mini-ambulance that acts as a mobile clinic equipped with ICU-level facilities, enabling doctors and medical staff to visit patients at home.
Dr Swaminathan, born in Tiruchirappalli and raised in Canada, returned to India after completing his medical education. While working at a private medical college, he observed numerous elderly patients struggling with mobility and logistical issues, leading to the launch of Doctor on Wheels in 2019.
Explaining his choice to remain and practise in India, Dr Swaminathan said, “I became so attached to my profession that I decided to stay here and give my best, rather than going back. I believe doctors should serve their own country, especially where the need for healthcare is so high.”
The mobile clinic team provides home consultations, medicine delivery, blood tests, and diagnostic services including portable X-rays, ECGs, and ultrasounds at patients’ doorsteps. The effort is supported by young doctors, paramedical staff, and nurses, including Dr Ishwar, a recent MBBS graduate contributing to patient care while preparing for further studies.
Highlighting the significance of geriatric care, Dr Ishwar stated, “Our role in elderly care is extremely important. Senior citizens deserve support and respect at every stage. Often, people above 50 or 60 do not receive adequate attention in hospitals, and their needs get overlooked. That’s why we chose to focus on geriatric care–to provide them with dedicated and accessible healthcare.”
The team travels approximately 60 kilometres daily and treats over 25 patients each day. Dr Swaminathan has also established Shyamala Hospital, an elder care home providing accommodation, treatment, regular monitoring, and comprehensive support for senior citizens.
Emphasising accessible healthcare, Dr Swaminathan added, “Doctors should reach patients, rather than patients waiting for hours in corporate hospitals. For the elderly, travelling is especially difficult. That is why we have made healthcare services more accessible, convenient, and affordable for them. We provide door-to-door services, including consultations, pharmacy support, free medicine delivery, lab tests, and physiotherapy.”
Since its inception, Doctor on Wheels and its associated care services have benefited more than 25,000 patients, offering relief to numerous families. The initiative demonstrates that compassionate healthcare delivered directly to patients’ homes can profoundly transform lives.