The Odisha government has signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with four private hospitals for better delivery of quality health care services in the state.

The healthcare providers include Kolkata-based Glocal Health Care Systems Private limited, Centre for Stem Cell Research, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Narayana Hrudayalaya and LV Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar. The MoUs were signed in the presence of chief minister Naveen Patnaik.

Glocal Healthcare Systems will help the state government for implementation of the digital dispensary project in 14 locations of Nabarangpur district in the first phase. Later the programme will be extended to 11 more locations of the district basing on the outcome of the first phase.

Centre for Stem Cell Research and Christian Medical College, Vellore, will take part in better detection and treatment of Thalassemia and Sickle cell anaemia. It will reduce major Haemoglobinopathy disorders through screening, counselling, pre-natal diagnosis with an appropriate technology and possible curative options. Government plans to establish five-year collaboration with the institute.

Narayana Hrudayalaya will help in providing a faster and better access to children detected with different heart diseases.

LV Prasad Eye Hospital will help in providing specialized care to the needy children for treatment of congenital cataract and retinopathy of prematurity. The state has already identified 2436 children with eye problems and provided them treatment facilities.