Lucknow: Heart attack patients in UP can now receive faster and more advanced treatment with the launch of the ‘System of treating elevation myocardial infarction’ (STEMI) care network. This state govt initiative aims to ensure timely medical intervention during the critical ‘golden hour‘, significantly increasing patients’ chances of survival.
The first phase of the network’s training of trainers (ToT) programme was inaugurated on Tuesday at the cardiology department of King George’s Medical University (KGMU). The programme aims to strengthen the expertise of healthcare professionals across the state, preparing them to handle emergency cardiac cases more effectively.
According to officials, the STEMI care network follows the hub-and-spoke model successfully implemented in Tamil Nadu and Goa. In this model, tertiary care hospitals equipped with cath labs serve as ‘hubs’, connected to smaller public health facilities known as ‘spokes’. These spokes stabilise patients before referring them to advanced hubs, ensuring a smooth and swift transition for critical care.
Explaining the model, a senior faculty member at KGMU’s cardiology department, Prof Rishi Sethi said, “Heart attacks remain the leading cause of death in India. This structured approach ensures that patients receive life-saving care within the golden hour, crucial for their survival. Tamil Nadu’s success in equipping ambulances with STEMI kits and training coordinators to manage patient transfers has set an example.”
He added that the initiative’s first phase connects KGMU with district hospitals in Lucknow, Sitapur, Hardoi and Lakhimpur Kheri. Around 275 doctors are undergoing a three-day training session to implement the model effectively. During this training, healthcare professionals learn to conduct primary treatment, including administering thrombolysis to dissolve blood clots, before referring patients to hubs for advanced interventions like angiography and angioplasty if needed. Principal secretary of medical health and family welfare and medical education, UP, Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma emphasised the need for public awareness to complement this medical initiative. “We must educate the public about heart attack symptoms and the importance of reaching hospitals promptly. Pamphlets and health awareness tools will be distributed to spread awareness,” he stated.The event was also attended by KGMU vice-chancellor, Prof Soniya Nityanand, who presided over the launch. Sharing future plans, Prof Sethi mentioned, “After a six-month review of the first phase, the network plans to expand to more hubs and spokes across the state, ensuring no patient is denied timely treatment. The initiative aspires to transform cardiac care in UP, reducing fatalities and improving patient outcomes.”
Special secretary of medical education, Mannan Akhtar added, “This effort not only strengthens emergency cardiac care but also brings hope to countless families affected by heart ailments in the state.”
