Aster DM Healthcare achieves top-tier NABH Digital Standards’ Platinum Certification for Aster CMI Hospital

Aster DM Healthcare, one of the largest integrated healthcare providers in India is proud to announce the recognition received for Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru as the first hospital in South India to achieve the top-tier Platinum Certification for Digital Health Standards from the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). This distinguished certification also makes Aster CMI the first hospital in Karnataka to be accredited under NABH’s new digital standards framework.

The NABH Digital Health Standards, launched in 2023, are pioneering in India, specifically designed to assess hospitals based on their digital maturity and integration of advanced technologies in healthcare. These standards aim to enhance clinical care quality, patient safety, and overall operational efficiency by encouraging the adoption of digital health processes.

Digital health innovations such as telemedicine, electronic health records (EHRs), mobile health applications, wearable technology, and artificial intelligence are critical components in transforming healthcare delivery. These technologies enable more effective health management, personalized and efficient care, and improved health outcomes. Aster CMI Hospital has successfully implemented several key digital health initiatives contributing to this accreditation.

One of the notable advancements is the comprehensive Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system, which ensures secure and accessible patient data management. The Online Quality Management System has also been pivotal, facilitating quality audits, clinical pathway compliance, and real-time dashboard monitoring. Another significant implementation is Aster Insight, a robust feedback mechanism that continuously improves patient services by capturing and analyzing patient experiences. Additionally, Aster CMI’s telemedicine services extend healthcare access to remote and underserved areas, ensuring continuity of care and expanding the hospital’s reach. Apart from this, initiatives like online incident management system, Oracle based inventory management, lab information system, digital payments, remote patient monitoring and more played a key role in getting the accreditation.

Dr. Nitish Shetty, CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, India, expressing his pride in this achievement, said, “We are honored to receive the Platinum certification from NABH, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare. This achievement reflects our team’s dedication to patient care and safety, ensuring we meet the highest standards in our industry. We remain steadfast in our mission to deliver compassionate, innovative healthcare solutions, empowering healthier lives. This recognition underscores our promise to the communities we serve and motivates us to continually raise the bar.”

Mr. Sreeni Venugopal, Chief Information Officer, Aster DM Healthcare, shared his enthusiasm and said, “I am proud of our team’s diligent efforts in achieving this accreditation. This recognition validates our commitment to leveraging technology for enhancing patient care and operational efficiency. It reaffirms our role in safeguarding sensitive healthcare data and maintaining robust IT infrastructure. We are dedicated to advancing healthcare through innovation and secure digital solutions, ensuring our patients receive the highest standard of care.”

Tips for a Healthy and Happy Pregnancy

Dr. Kavitha Kovi, Head of Department – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Bengaluru

Many women feel like they are on a roller-coaster ride during pregnancy, which starts from the moment they find out that they are pregnant until they hold their babies in their arms as well as even after giving birth. It can be overwhelming hence if you’re having some difficulties in feeling your best, always remember that you are not alone. It is normal for any woman to have different emotions during this period. Nevertheless, it need not be difficult.

Listed here are tips to help you radiate during pregnancy:

1.       Planning Ahead for Labour: Striking a balance between planning and avoiding being overwhelmed with anxiety about what may happen is vital. Having an idea of what might occur can offer peace of mind. Preparing for labour means that you will be able to make smart choices that enhance good health, enabling you to surmount hurdles faced and decrease stress levels.

2.       Getting a Massage: Releasing muscle tension through massage can alleviate some of the discomforts related with pregnancy; it has also been found effective in reducing postpartum depression in the long run.

3.       Spending Time with Loved Ones: Spending time with people you love can help reduce anxiety and decrease stress levels. It can bring joy and laughter, improving your mood. Forming these connections can provide encouragement and support. Research has shown that women with healthy relationships adjust better when transitioning to motherhood.

4.       Engaging in Mindfulness and Yoga: Meditation offers countless benefits, such as reducing stress, controlling anxiety, improving sleep, and managing pain. Practicing yoga promotes a positive outlook, creating self-awareness. This can help generate kind feelings towards yourself and others, and it can also help lower blood pressure.

5.       Connecting with New Parents: Supportive, authentic friendships make a significant difference in happiness during pregnancy and the transition to motherhood. Communicating with another soon-to-be mother can help you relate and receive helpful tips. It provides comfort by connecting with someone who truly understands your experiences.

6.        Exercise: Exercising can help lift your mood. It has been shown that exercising can reduce depression and anxiety. Working out release’s endorphins, which not only boost your mood but also help relieve pain. However, it is not necessary to do a super-intensive workout. It is advisable to consult a doctor before starting any exercise routine.

7.        Eating Healthy: There are many benefits to eating healthy, including increased immunity and maintaining a healthy weight. Equally important is the increase in energy and the healthy nutrition that can nourish your body and your baby, helping you feel empowered.

8.       Adequate Sleep: For pregnant women, it is recommended to have at least 8 to 10 hours of sleep per day. Poor sleep is linked to depression and weight gain. A lack of sleep can also make you cranky. Many pregnant women experience pregnancy fatigue, which can affect their mood. Therefore, getting good sleep is essential.

BCIC JAPAN Engages with SMRJ to promote India-Japan Trade and Commerce

Bangalore Chamber of Industries and Commerce (BCIC) in Association with The Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) organized a roadshow for the Department of Commerce and Industries, Government of Karnataka at the Indian Embassy, Tokyo Japan. The government delegation was led by Shri M B Patil, Minister for Commerce & Industries and Infrastructure, Dr. S Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Commerce & Industries, Commissioner Smt. Gunjan Krishna IAS, Department of Commerce & Industries and Mr. H N Ravindra, Deputy Director, Invest Karnataka Forum. 

At the Investment Roadshow,  led by Honourable Industry Minister Mr. M B Patil, Government of Karnataka with BCIC as a Supporting Partner for the event, BCIC JAPAN announced that it has commenced concrete steps to promote trade and commerce by engaging with The Organisation for Small and Medium Enterprises and Regional Innovation JAPAN (SMRJ), a Govt of Japan agency, enabling expansion of markets, collaborations and match making, opening doors for a large pool of Indian and Japanese MSME enterprises, start-ups, family run businesses in both the countries.     

“We are in the process of scrutinising applications from over 40 Indian companies in various sectors to come to Japan and meet with Japanese SMEs through the collaboration with SMRJ. We are also working on business delegate visits from Japan to Karnataka and vice versa. We are confident that Karnataka’s developed Japanese Industrial Township, good presence of Japanese companies in Bengaluru and the availability of skilled workforce in the technology, digital and innovation sector will be attractive to Japanese investors” said Dr. K G Suresh, Country Head – BCIC JAPAN.

Dr. Suresh also stated that BCIC JAPAN is in touch with the various Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Ishikawa, Gifu and Fukuoka Prefectures in Japan to spread the message on investment and trade opportunities and has held several seminars and webinars. “BCIC JAPAN has been effectively taking steps to promote investments, trade and commerce, people to people connect and cultural exchanges between India and Japan. It is also raising awareness on investment opportunities for Japanese companies in the Japanese Industrial Zone at Tumakuru in its endeavours, as part of China plus One policy.” he added.

BCIC JAPAN has a team of people with business experience in India and Japan. It has the support of the Indian Embassy, Japanese Consulate, JETRO and its partnering stakeholders. BCIC has laid ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ as its Vision with the theme ‘Namma Karnataka – Gateway to Future India’, focussing on ‘Make in India with Japan, for the Globe’. BCIC is the first industry body from India to set up an office in Tokyo, Japan, through the partnering and coming together of key stakeholders JETRO, Toyota Tsusho India Pvt. Ltd, Inter Trade KK and India Research Institute Pvt. Ltd.

Strengthening Fight Against Global Crisis – AMR: Experts View @EUROASIA 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global problem affecting humans, the environment, and animals, ranking among the top 10 challenges faced by humanity. During EuroAsia 2024, that witnessed participation from leading critical care specialists, experts shared concern over AMR and its increasing prevalence in India. Leading critical care experts such as Dr. Bharat Jagiasi, Dr. Pradip Bhattacharya, Dr Srinivas Samavedam, Dr. Pradeep Rangappa, Dr. Rajesh Pande, Dr Sachin Gupta, ⁠Dr. Bhuvana krishna, ⁠Dr.Kartik Rao emphasized on the need for strengthening fight against AMR and adopting holistic approach of ‘One Health’ for improving antimicrobial stewardship.

To effectively address AMR, adoption of a multifaceted approach is crucial. This includes implementation of surveillance and tracking systems, antibiotic stewardship, and infection prevention and control measures. Addressing the media, Dr Bharat Jagiasi, General Secretary of ISCCM said “The resistance to antibiotics is leading to longer hospital stays, longer treatment and mortality. There is a need to aggressively strengthen the fight against AMR and adopt One Health stewardship practices to tackle the global AMR challenge. Implementing effective public campaigns can educate publicon antimicrobials prescribed. It is necessary to improve and strengthen hygiene measures and prevent the spread of infections. Antibiotic resistance has accelerated the spread of resistant bacteria known as “superbugs,” which will put an immense strain on health systems and countries economy, which can result in increased hospitalizations and deaths.

Sharing the factors leading to AMR, Prof. Dr Pradip Bhattacharya, President, ISCCM stated, “The One Health concept highlights the critical need to control antibiotic consumption. Data suggests that 1.2 million deaths in India are due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with an estimated 10 million deaths by 2050. The medical fraternity must exercise caution in prescribing antibiotics to avoid unnecessary risks and should adopt a judicious approach through stewardship programs.” Excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics is a key factor fueling the emergence of resistant bacteria, complicating the treatment of common infections and heightening the likelihood of severe outcomes and death. Apart from this, limited awareness among general public and patients about AMR hinder effective prevention measures.”

Dr Srinivas Samavedam, President, Elect, ISCCM said, “Multiple stakeholders and each one has a role to play in AMR control. After COVID-19 specially Stewardship is needed which is the right drug, right time, right bug and right dose. The patient needs 36 to 48 hours for any antibiotic to be effective., a little trust is required from the patients. However, the patients take a 2nd opinion and change dosage. Pharmacies are also required to adhere to the norms and putting a red strip on a medicine means that it should be sold with a prescription. It is also the industry’s responsibility to sell the highest level of antibiotics to the right audience and  ISCCM has always been at the forefront of AMR’s battle

On solutions for a secure future against AMR, Dr Pradeep Rangappa, leading critical care specialist and former secretary, ISCCM said, “India is the 3rd largest consumer of antibiotics.  30 to 60% of the time,  an antibiotic will be inappropriate and needs to be curtailed. The Indian government has created a national action plan to curtail antibiotic consumption. We have come out with guidelines on surveillance and how resistance patterns are progressing. India is in a serious situation,  so checks and balances need to come in place at the pharmacy level.”

Emphasizing on need for pharmaceutical companies to bring newer anti-infectives, Eminent intensive care expert, Principal Director, BLK MAX Super speciality Hospital, Dr Rajesh Pande said, “AMR needs to be tackled through multi-disciplinary approach. While antibiotic consumption needs to be judiciously used both- inside and outside the hospital through monitoring over the counter medication of antibiotics. AMR prevalence is increasing, but unfortunately the pipeline of new antibiotics is running dry. Pharmaceutical companies need to introduce more newer anti-infectives to treat the drug-resistant bacteria, since the pathogens have developed resistance for majority of the current anti-infectives available in the market.”

Admiral America Corporation Pvt. Ltd. Announces its Foray into the India Market

Admiral is proud of its legacy and heritage of 90 years as it celebrates ‘9 decades of Excellence’ this year. Admiral with its renowned expertise in Appliances and Electronics is pleased to make its foray into the Indian market in association with Flipkart. 

Flipkart’s service arm, Jeeves, will support the After Sales Service for the Admiral product range.

Vishal Saxena, Chief Executive Officer for MEA & South Asia region, stated, “Admiral is proud and delighted about its collaboration with the wholesale arm of Flipkart. India being one of the fastest growing economies in the world, Admiral is focused on capturing market share aggressively in various product categories.” He further added that in the first phase, Admiral and Flipkart will introduce a wide range of products including LED TVs, Air conditioners, Refrigerators and Washing Machines to the discerning consumers of India.

Vishal Saxena further added that Admiral has plans to introduce multiple product categories in the second phase that will further strengthen Admiral’s presence in India.

Kunal Gupta, Vice President, Large Appliances at Flipkart, said, “As they foray into the Indian market, Flipkart is pleased to be one of the partners for Admiral America Corporation Pvt Ltd. Combining the varied range of Admiral America’s products and our strong footprint in the Indian market, we believe this will add significant value to the shopping experience of consumers and create an impactful journey ahead.” 

Admiral Range will go live on Flipkart tentatively by the end of June 2024

Manoj Jain takes charge as Chairman & Managing Director of BEL

Mr Manoj Jain took charge as the Chairman and Managing Director of Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) on June 20, 2024. He was Director (R&D) since September 26, 2022, and was also assigned with the additional charge of Director (Bangalore Complex) from August 1, 2023.

Mr Manoj Jain was also assigned additional charge of Director (HR) from November 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023. He was General Manager of the Electronic Warfare & Avionics SBU at BEL’s Bangalore Complex prior to his elevation as Director (R&D).

Mr Manoj Jain joined BEL in August 1991 as Probationary Engineer after completing his BE (Electronics) from REC Jaipur (MNIT) with Gold medal. In an illustrious career spanning over three decades, he has made significant contributions to the field of Research & Development.

During his initial years in D&E at BEL’s Kotdwara Unit, Mr Manoj Jain played a pivotal role in the development of Digital Multiplexers, Cross Connects, CDOT Exchanges and Military Switches. In 1999, he moved to BEL’s Central Research Laboratory in Bangalore and was engaged in the development of technologies for Defence Networks and Network & Bulk Security Solutions. In the area of Radar, one of BEL’s core businesses, he was involved in the development of VeXT, Scan Converter and Display using FPGA.

Mr Manoj Jain served as Chief Scientist of CRL-Bangalore from December 2017 to May 2019, overseeing technological developments in all technical areas. He took over as General Manager of BEL’s Product Development & Innovation Centre (PD&IC) in June 2019. During his two-year stint here, PD&IC developed many new products/sub-systems required for BEL, thus ensuring innovation and value addition, leading to self-reliance.

Mr Manoj Jain took over as the General Manager and Head of the Electronic Warfare & Avionics SBU at BEL-Bangalore, in June 2021. Apart from overseeing all the business operations of the SBU, he provided the much-needed vision for this business vertical.

Second Chance at Love and Life: Karnataka witnesses a medical miracle with its first heart re-transplant

For seven years (2016 – 2023), 32-year-old engineer battled recurrent heart failure, requiring frequent hospitalizations. His journey culminated in a successful heart transplant at Aster Hospitals.

In 2016, due to dilated cardiomyopathy and severe heart dysfunction, with irreversible damage to his heart and no hope for recovery from heart failure, the patient underwent a successful heart transplant. Despite financial constraints, his father and committed partner secured the necessary funds for the surgery, which took place in 2016 without any complications and the patient remained stable until 2020.

Despite facing a 75% survival rate prognosis, the patient and his committed partner remained determined. They married in 2018, embracing the obstacles of post-transplant life together. His wife was the pillar of support and strength throughout his recovery journey.

However, 2020 brought a new health issue. The patient contracted severe COVID-19, requiring intensive care. Fortunately, he made a full recovery with no lasting impediments. After overcoming these struggles, their joy multiplied with the birth of a beautiful baby girl.

The patient’s journey continued to unfold in 2021. Chest pain and backaches led to a new challenge: cardiac allograft vasculopathy, a narrowing of the arteries in his transplanted heart.  Apart from this, a follow-up echocardiogram in 2022 revealed severe biventricular dysfunction, necessitating a cardiac re-transplant. This news meant another transplant was necessary, but the patient, a fighter through and through, faced it with unwavering determination.

Recognizing the complexity of the case,  the cardiologists’ team led by Dr. Nagamalesh U M mobilized to perform a life-saving heart re-transplant surgery. This transformational procedure marked a first in Karnataka and the second in India.

The patient underwent a complex re-transplantation in December 2023. While initial complications arose due to bleeding and rejection episodes, meticulous management with regular biopsies and close monitoring ensured a successful recovery. Complications arose post-transplant. The patient bled due to surgery and blood thinners from his angioplasty. Despite recurrent rejections, meticulous management with regular biopsies and close monitoring kept him stable.

He has now completed 6 months of the second heart transplant with no further complications. 

“The past few years have been a medical rollercoaster for me. Finding out I needed a second transplant was a setback, however the exceptional team of surgeons, led by Dr. Ganeshakrishnan Iyer and helped by Dr. Divakar Bhat, Dr. Arul Dominic Furtado, Dr. Madhusudana Narayana, Dr. Prashanth Y M, and Lead Cardiologist, Dr. Nagamalesh U M extended their support throughout my treatment journey.  My family was kept informed about the surgery and all our queries were addressed. I am immensely grateful for their expertise and compassion. They have given me the gift of renewed health and the opportunity to look forward to the future,” saidthe patient.

Commenting on the Surgery, Prof. Dr. Nagamalesh U M, Lead Consultant – Cardiology, Interventional Cardiologist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, and Director – Heart Failure, Transplant & MCS Program, Aster Hospitals, Bangalore, said, “The patient’s post-transplant course included significant bleeding events due to the second surgery and the ongoing requirement for blood thinners and rejections. However, through meticulous monitoring and regular endomyocardial biopsies, these challenges were effectively managed. Importantly, the patient has now achieved a successful 6-month post-operative period with no further complications, demonstrating his remarkable resilience and the invaluable support of his loved ones.”

Dr. Ganeshakrishnan Iyer, Lead Consultant – CTVS Surgery, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore said, “Heart re-transplant was a complex procedure, requiring meticulous planning, exceptional skill from the entire team, and seamless communication throughout the process. I’m proud of the dedication and expertise displayed by every member of the team. This case exemplifies the power of collaboration in achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

Mr. Ramesh Kumar S, CEO – Aster Hospitals, Bangalore, said, “We are proud to mention this is the 2^nd in the country and 1^st heart transplant in Karnataka. Dr. Nagamalesh and his team’s expertise and dedication not only provided the patient with a second chance at life but also offered hope to individuals facing similar complex cardiac conditions. We wish the patient, a brighter future.”

Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital Provides Free Cataract Screenings for Seniors in Bengaluru

n recognition of Cataract Awareness Month this June, Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital is offering free cataract consultations to residents of Bengaluru aged 50 and above. This service is available across all 11 branches and clinics in the city until June 30, 2024. For registration, please contact: 9594029222

Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting approximately 18 million people. They are particularly prevalent among diabetic patients, with clinical studies indicating that up to 20% of all cataract surgeries are performed on individuals with diabetes.

Dr. Ravi Dorairaj, Regional Head Clinical Services, Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital explained, “Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes clouded, leading to diminished vision. It is crucial for individuals, especially those in their 50s, to have regular eye check-ups as aging can cause the protein in the eye lens to break down, resulting in blurry or foggy vision, difficulty identifying colors, and poor night vision. While age-related cataracts are most common, other risk factors include ultraviolet ray exposure, dehydration, unhealthy diet, smoking, eye injuries, diabetes, and certain medical treatments like radiation therapy.”

Discussing treatment and prevention, Dr. Ravi Dorairaj said that, “Cataract surgery is a safe and effective treatment that significantly improves quality of life. Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle, quitting smoking and alcohol, and wearing sunglasses during peak sunlight hours to protect against harmful UV radiation.”

Xiaomi 14 CIVI Launches in India

Xiaomi, a global leader in technology and innovation, unveils the Xiaomi 14 CIVI, a stunning addition to the acclaimed Xiaomi 14 Series. Co-engineered with Leica, Xiaomi 14 CIVI takes forward Xiaomi’s legacy in mobile imaging and smartphone photography. The Xiaomi 14 CIVI doubles-down on camera performance while seamlessly inheriting the iconic design language of the Xiaomi 14 Series, marking a significant evolution in the flagship segment. This demonstrates Xiaomi’s ongoing commitment to making cutting-edge innovations available to everyone.

“Building on the phenomenal success of the Xiaomi 14 Series, co-engineered with Leica, we’re excited to announce the latest addition of the Xiaomi 14 CIVI to the line-up”, says Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Xiaomi India. “The Xiaomi 14 Series pushed the boundaries of smartphone photography, innovative design and unmatched performance. Our aim was to expand these latest innovations to a wider audience. With the launch of Xiaomi 14 CIVI, we are rewriting the rules of innovation and redefining what a smartphone in this segment can offer. It delivers a complete flagship experience, from its stunning design to its everyday performance that surpasses benchmarks, all equipped with the best cameras we are offering in this segment. The Xiaomi 14 CIVI isn’t just a phone; it’s a statement.”