KANNUR: The Health department has reversed its decision of not allowing hematologic patients to take injection medicines home, including those with haemophilia.

After continuous reports by Kerala Kaumudi, the Health Minister has directed that the vaccination can be done at home. Accordingly, one vial(ten doses) of medicine can be taken home.. Taluk and district hospitals and medical colleges will ensure better treatment for hematologic patients.

Earlier, the medicines which was not available in medical stores, could be taken home free of charge from government hospitals. As per modern method, when bleeding occurs, the factor dose can be injected at home itself. Denial of home injections is part of the prevention of drug overdose. The government's decision was also prompted by officials corruption of crores of rupees in the distribution of medicines. Strong protest were raised against this decision. Thalassemia and haemophilia patients were distressed when they were told to travel miles to the taluk hospital if there was internal bleeding even at night.

The Health minister has ordered not to give free haemophilic medicines from Karunya pharmacies and payment sale should be made as per the instructions from the Corporation headquarters.

"Treatment will not be denied on the grounds of overuse of the drug. Specialist treatment will be ensured in the taluk hospitals. A vial medicine can be taken home. Also single dose of the drug can be purchased. Overuse of drug will be prevented.", said Veena George.

Kareem Karassery, General Convener, Kerala Blood Patients Protection Council said that they welcome the Minister's decision.