BBMP to Launch Health ATMs in BLR’s Namma Clinics

Health ATMs are kiosk-like machines equipped with touchscreens and a variety of medical devices, including a 12-lead ECG, digital stethoscope, and blood pressure monitor.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to introduce Health ATMs at Namma Clinics across Bengaluru, providing residents with the ability to self-screen for non-communicable diseases and monitor over 60 health parameters.

Reportedly, this initiative is aimed at benefiting middle- and low-income communities in the city.

BBMP has invited tenders for the installation of 18 Health ATMs in the first phase, with a planned launch by December. Screenings will be free during the pilot phase.

What Are Health ATMs?

Health ATMs are kiosk-like machines equipped with touchscreens and a variety of medical devices, including a 12-lead ECG, digital stethoscope, and blood pressure monitor.

These compact machines also offer kits for testing conditions such as dengue, pregnancy, typhoid, malaria, and HIV.

Additionally, automated tools for measuring body temperature, height, and weight are available, making the machines a comprehensive self-screening solution.

Each Health ATM unit costs around INR 10 Lakh. The selected company through the tender process will be responsible for installing the machines within 30 days of receiving the supply order.

The contract also includes a one-month supply of reagents necessary for the screenings.

The kiosks will be connected to an online platform, allowing both patients and doctors to access health data for follow-up consultations.

BBMP staff will receive training to assist users in operating the machines. Telemedicine services will be integrated later, offering users access to specialized consultations.

BBMP's Suralkar Vikas Kishore, as quoted by Deccan Herald, noted that this model follows the one introduced in Kalaburagi last year, where Health ATMs screened for up to 50 health parameters.

About Namma Clinics

Namma Clinics are established to provide primary healthcare services to vulnerable sections of society, including slum dwellers and daily wage workers. Each clinic serves a population of 10,000 to 20,000 and offers 12 types of healthcare services.

These clinics are staffed by a medical officer, nurse, lab technician, and a Group D employee.

The services include maternal and child healthcare, universal immunization, family welfare, management of infectious diseases, common ailments, and non-communicable diseases like diabetes.

Free referrals are provided for more complex conditions requiring tertiary care, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, and eye conditions.

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