UNM Foundation and UN Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre announce fully-funded Heart Transplants for Needy Patients

Ahmedabad, June 1, 2024: Every life matters. In line with this philosophy, the UNM  Foundation (named after Shri UN Mehta, the Founder of Torrent Group) and the UN Mehta  Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre (UNMICRC), Ahmedabad have signed an  important Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide financial assistance for heart  transplants to needy patients. 

Heart Transplant surgeries and the post-operative  care required are expensive and generally out of  bounds for underprivileged patients. This first of its  kind collaboration in the country aims to alleviate  the financial burden on underprivileged families  facing the devastating challenge of advanced heart  failure. 

Under the terms of the MOU, UNM Foundation  shall provide full financia

needy patients for free. Patients suffering from advanced heart failure, unresponsive to  guideline-directed medical therapy and those who lack the financial means to afford the  necessary treatment will be eligible for this financial assistance. The UNM Foundation will  cover the cost of the entire procedure – pre-operative evaluation, transport of donor  heart (including by air ambulance where necessary), heart transplant surgery, post 

operative hospitalization for nearly 3 weeks, post-operative use of medical devices and  medication for 1 year following the Transplant. 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Chirag Doshi, Director of UNMICRC, stated that “This unique  initiative by the UNM Foundation is a beacon of hope for countless families requiring a heart  transplant but lacking the financial means for it. By providing comprehensive financial  support, we are not only saving lives but also ensuring that the highest quality of medical care  is accessible to those who need it the most.” 

UNMICRC, a leader in cardiac care, has already performed 27 heart  transplants till date. These include 4 instances where donor hearts were transported via  chartered flights, underscoring the institute’s commitment to overcoming logistical challenges  to save lives. 

UNMICRC will announce the patient eligibility criteria. This initiative will be in effect from  1st June 2024 for an initial period of five years. The collaboration is expected to set a new  standard in medical philanthropy and patient care, paving the way for future initiatives aimed  at bridging the gap between advanced medical treatments and financial accessibility.