Scheme for accident victims in Harish's name

The State government has decided to launch a cashless treatment plan for road accident victims in the name of 23-year-old braveheart Harish Nanjappa.

Harish made a wish that his organs be donated even as his body had been cut into two in an accident near Nelamangala recently. Health Minister U T Khader, on Saturday, told reporters that the new scheme - Mukhyamantrigala Santwana - was supposed to be launched on March 8. It has now been renamed after Harish, who has inspired an organ donation movement. Accident victims are entitled to immediate cashless treatment at hospitals for up to 48 hours, with a cap of Rs 25,000. Toll-free numbers - ‘108’ and ‘104’ - have also been launched to report accidents. The scheme provides assistance to victims of road accidents across the State, irrespective of their financial status or nationality.

They will be able to receive treatment from a set of 25 treatment and ancillary packages. Khader said the packages were recommended by an expert committee. Treatment can be availed for simple injuries, complicated facial injuries, fractures, head injuries, burns-related injuries, blood transfusion, among others. Participating hospitals have been categorised as level 1, 2 and 3 trauma centres based on the facilities available.