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The Sankalp Drop-in-Centre (DIC) in Mumbai provides Oral Substitution Therapy, treatment for HIV and other opportunistic infections, and counselling to about 70 street-based and marginalised individuals who use drugs daily. Outreach workers also provide services at specific hotspots for new clients. The lockdown to contain COVID-19 shut access to services for these clients, which would increase drug-resistance as well as cause more individuals to relapse to drug use. The loss of jobs and the closure of health facilities meant they also faced limited access to food and healthcare.

Sankalp resolved to continue services during the pandemic.

We advocated with government and police to permit re-opening the centre; this was first initiated weekly and later daily. Passes issued by local government enabled staff travel. Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) was given for a week, instead of daily. For clients who could not reach the clinic, ART was home-delivered. Using an ambulance, the needle-syringe exchange program continued as well as other care such as abscess management. Patients with Hep C were initiated to access free treatment at government centres, which was also restarted through advocacy efforts. Telecounselling, such as through Zoom, ensured continued psychosocial support. We also distributed masks and soaps to clients and the community. Social distancing was ensured at the drop-in centre. Coordination with other NGOs ensured that regular meals were provided to clients at the drop-in centre.

 

For more information, contact the author: Eldred Tellis, https://www.facebook.com/SankalpRehabilitationTrust/ 

 

In the lead-up to UHC Day 2020 (“Health for All: Protect Everyone”), we are highlighting how CSEM member organizations are contributing to ensure the COVID-19 response protects everyone and keeping momentum going for universal health coverage amid the crisis. See more.

Join us for the virtual UHC Day rally on 12 December 2020 — share your commitment to UHC and call on decision-makers to protect everyone!