RAJOURI, OCTOBER 8: The District JOSH Team (Joint Squad for Health), a dedicated multi-departmental team tasked to strengthen efforts for early detection, prevention and control of tuberculosis was formally launched here today by MLA Thanamandi Muzaffar Iqbal Khan in the presence of ADDC Malikzada Sheraz-ul-Haq; ACD Sheraz Chowhan; CMO Dr. Manohar Lal Rana; District Tuberculosis Officer, District AYUSH Officer, District Youth Officer and other senior officers, officials and MY Bharat volunteers.
The launch marked an important step towards taking TB-related services, screening, awareness and preventive interventions closer to the people, particularly those residing in villages, far-flung, remote and underserved areas of the district.
Addressing the gathering, the MLA appreciated the coordinated efforts of various departments, health functionaries and volunteers involved in the initiative and encouraged the JOSH Team to work with dedication, commitment and a strong spirit of public service. He emphasised the importance of early identification of TB cases, timely diagnosis and treatment, prevention of transmission and active community participation to reduce the burden of tuberculosis.
The officers present on the occasion also extended their encouragement and support to the team and stressed the need for greater inter-sectoral coordination, community mobilisation and effective outreach to vulnerable populations.
The District JOSH Team will focus on reaching vulnerable and high-risk population in far-flung areas, facilitating early identification of presumptive TB cases, promoting timely referral and diagnosis, creating awareness regarding TB symptoms and prevention and sensitising communities about the availability of free TB diagnostic and treatment services under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP).
The initiative will involve coordinated participation of the District Tuberculosis Officer, District AYUSH Officer, all Block Medical Officers, Nodal Officer–NOHP, all Block Nodal Officers, Medical Officers, NTEP staff, District Youth Officer, Ward Councillors, Associate NCC Officers, MY Bharat volunteers and other concerned stakeholders, besides field-level health and community workers.
The NTEP staff and Block-level health teams will provide technical support for identification, diagnosis, treatment linkage, follow-up and awareness activities. The involvement of AYUSH, youth organisations, NCC, elected representatives and community volunteers will further strengthen the people-centred approach of the initiative.
The team will also encourage community members, institutions, philanthropists and organisations to come forward and become Nikshay Mitras, thereby contributing towards nutritional, social and other appropriate support for TB patients and their families.
