Re: CD4 testing at Namakkal District in Tamilnadu

[Guest guest]

Dear FORUM,

This is in response to Mr. Swami's issue on the CD4 testing facility at Namakkal

GH (message on Oct 31st, 2006)

/message/6468

TN Dr. MGR Medical University established PPTCT centers in Namakkal since the

year 2000 because of the high prevalence (4-6% among the ANC’s). Taking into

account HIV prevalence in Namakkal district and considering the infrastructure

facility provided by the University in the Namakkal District Head Quarter

Hospital, the University along with other partners pressed for ART center at

Namakkal GH.

In January 2005, NACO and TNSACS considered the proposal to offer ART in

Namakkal GH along with technical expertise from the University. Accordingly, the

University helped in the daily functioning of the ART center-counselling, blood

drawing and other laboratory services. PPTCT Medical officer of the University

was directed to render his services at the ART Center. Later he was absorbed as

ART medical officer of TNSACS and is working till date.

Since the beginning of the ART program, CD4 counts were performed 3 days a week

from January till November 2005 by the University.

Approximately 2820 CD4 tests were performed during those 11 months. These

services were continuous without interruption. But due to “unknown” reasons, the

authorities asked University to withdraw all the services related to ART in

November 2005.

We wish to inform Mr. Swamy that the University is still willing to offer its

services to the ART center at Namakkal if the authorities reconsider.

Dr. Mini ,

Department of Experimental Medicine

TN Dr. MGR Medical University

Chennai,

e-mail: <saramini@...>