Medtech Startup EzeRx Collaborates with Himachal Govt to Achieve ‘Anaemia Mukt Bharat’

The collaboration introduces 'EzeCheck,' the world's first ICMR-validated non-invasive haemoglobin screening device, to combat anaemia effectively in the state.

Bhubaneswar-based Medtech startup EzeRx has partnered with the Himachal Pradesh Government to achieve 'Anaemia Mukt Bharat' (Anaemia-free India). For the same, they have introduced 'EzeCheck,' an ICMR-validated non-invasive haemoglobin screening device, to combat anaemia effectively in the state. The startup claimed the device as the first-of-its-kind to treat anaemia.

EzeCheck the flagship product of EzeRx was showcased at a health camp held on January 15th at Civil Hospital, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. The inaugural event witnessed mass screening at the camp in Arki, testing over 750 individuals on the first day.

The device, deployed in the state during 2022-23 after rigorous validation, is now being introduced across Himachal Pradesh. This marks a substantial step towards the collective goal of making the state anaemia-free.

Emphasing the significance of EzeCheck in improving health, Partha Pratim Das Mahapatra, founder & CEO, EzeRx, said, "EzeCheck, the world’s first non-invasive haemoglobin screening device, has already made strides in 17+ states. With 23 lakh screenings, we are poised to make a significant impact in Himachal Pradesh." 

Das further highlighted the challenges faced by residents in remote hilly terrains, stating that EzeCheck aligns seamlessly with the mission of an anaemia-free Himachal Pradesh and India.

Key Features of EzeCheck - The Screening Device

The screening device boasts a non-invasive approach, requiring users to simply place their finger on the device. This eliminates the need for invasive procedures, marking an advancement in patient comfort and healthcare accessibility. Unlike traditional blood tests that draw around 30 ml of blood, EzeCheck is entirely blood-free, reducing medical waste and minimising discomfort for patients.

One of the key features includes the portability and affordability of EzeCheck, making it a convenient and cost-effective alternative to tests conducted at traditional diagnostic centres. The device's compatibility with telemedicine, owing to its IoT-enabled capabilities, allows for the electronic transmission of results, enhancing accessibility and promoting remote healthcare.

Moreover, users can connect the device to their phones via Bluetooth, place their left-hand ring finger on the finger bed of the device, fill in patient details, and with a simple click on the Bluetooth symbol, the results are displayed via the app in less than a minute. This seamless process enhances the accessibility of haemoglobin screening, ensuring quick and efficient healthcare delivery.

Tracing the Origin of ExeRx

Founded in 2018 by Partha Pratim Das Mahapatra & Chaitali Roy, EzeRx operates on the principle of "MedTech for the Masses." The startup focuses on bringing medical care closer and easier to patients and physicians through advanced medical devices and innovative solutions. 

Previously, in October 2023, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd invested in EzeRx Health Tech, acquiring a minority stake for INR 28.69 Cr. Aligned with the startup's aim, the investment is expected to diversify and strengthen EzeRx's product portfolio, with a special focus on non-invasive medical technologies.

Anaemia Challenge in India: State Rankings & Initiatives

Anaemia remains a prevalent health challenge in India, particularly among women aged 15-49, with an overall prevalence of 57.6%. The focus is on vulnerable groups such as adolescent girls, pregnant women, and children under five years of age.

The Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) initiative, launched in 1970, aims to intensify the Iron-plus Initiative to tackle anaemia. The initiative targets six beneficiary groups through six interventions and six institutional mechanisms.

The National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-2021) highlights the alarming anaemia burden in India, with 57% of women aged 15-49 and 67% of children between six months and 59 months being anaemic.

In the Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) Index for 2020-21, Haryana secured the top rank among 29 states in the country. 

In a similar vein, on November 23, Karnataka’s CM Siddaramaiah launched the Anaemia Mukta Poushtik Karnataka Action Plan, focusing on improving the nutritional status of mothers and children through targeted interventions.

The health department's screening initiatives aim to reach various age groups, including adolescents, children, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and women in the reproductive age group.