Inspired by the vision of APAR’s founder Mr. Dharmsinh Desai to provide quality education and healthcare at Dharmsinh Desai University (DDU) and Dr. N.D. Desai Faculty of Medical Science and Research (part of DDU) in Nadiad, Gujarat, the institutes reflect a commitment to social causes aimed at creating maximum social impact.
The newly inaugurated Desai Epilepsy Centre at Dr. N D Desai Faculty of Medical Science & Research stands as a flagship healthcare CSR initiative, supported by APAR, expert medical professionals, and institutional partner, The International Institute for Epilepsy, Inc. (non-profit corp, Florida, USA). APAR contributed Rs. 5 crores towards the development of the centre. This blog highlights the clinical advancements, regional importance, community impact, and the unique CSR partnership that makes the centre a beacon for epilepsy care in Gujarat.
Advancing Epilepsy Care: Clinical Advancements
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by brief disruptions in the brain’s electrical activity, but it is often misunderstood and stigmatised, particularly in rural areas where it is mistakenly seen as a mental illness or linked to supernatural causes. The centre seeks to bridge this gap in treatment and awareness by providing accessible, specialised medical care and by educating communities to dispel myths and foster greater social acceptance. This initiative aims to reduce stigma through public education and improve access to effective treatment for those affected by epilepsy in underserved regions.
The centre is a tertiary care hub, equipped to offer state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic, and holistic support for epilepsy patients. The centre’s focus is on closing the epilepsy treatment gap in India, where 70-90% of epilepsy patients do not receive adequate care due to limited access, trained professionals, and stigma.
Key services include:
- Emergency treatment for acute seizures
- Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) with Video EEG
- Advanced neuroimaging (MRI with epilepsy protocol)
- Clinical expertise in managing complex and drug-refractory epilepsy
- Integrated psychological and social support for patients and caregivers
A multidisciplinary specialist team ensures each patient receives individualised care using the latest medical technologies, providing accurate diagnosis and innovative treatment solutions that meet international standards.
Regional Importance in Nadiad, Gujarat
Epilepsy prevalence in Gujarat’s tribal regions reaches 255.6 per 100,000 population, and India’s average is 5.59 to 10 per 1,000 people. Rural communities, with a higher prevalence rate, have historically faced barriers such as limited access, stigma, and cultural misconceptions about epilepsy. By offering affordable, specialised care and awareness drives, the centre is uniquely positioned to transform outcomes in the Gujarat region.
(Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6238552/,https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4001222/ )
Impact on Patients and Community
With a vision to liberate individuals with epilepsy to live fulfilling lives, this centre directly benefits patients, families, and referring doctors in the area. Key impact areas include:
- Fast, accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment
- Cost-effective care for economically disadvantaged populations
- Rural outreach to raise awareness and break down social stigma through community events and education
- Comprehensive patient support groups, camps, and collaborative programs with NGOs and schools
- Regular CME programs and newsletters will ensure local physicians, ASHA workers, and the larger medical community stay informed and engaged.
Distinguished Medical Specialists
Dr. Utkarsh Patel, a Gold Medallist neurologist and research leader, heads the epilepsy team. Trained at the esteemed Hinduja National Hospital in Mumbai, Dr. Patel brings over 12 years of expertise, global research experience, and a patient-first commitment. Dr. Paresh Patel, MD, FACS, MBA, has been a practicing urologist since 1984, specialising in kidney-liver transplants, complex surgeries, and patient care. He is internationally recognised, with numerous publications and presentations, further strengthening the centre’s clinical prowess.
The Role of APAR and CSR Partnerships for Improved Epilepsy Care
APAR as a CSR partner, has enabled the establishment and ongoing support of advanced healthcare initiatives like the Desai epilepsy centre. The commitment of APAR resonates through its enduring ethos, delivering quality healthcare across socioeconomic barriers, exemplified by this partnership with Dr. N. D. Desai Faculty of Medical Science & Research, revolutionising care for underserved communities in and around Kheda district of Gujarat.
Inspirational Voices
Mr. Chaitanya Desai, Managing Director, APAR, shared “My late father gave us a letter of wishes mentioning to donate a certain percentage of our earnings every year; it reminds us that life has a higher purpose beyond materialistic goals. This guiding principle motivates APAR’s commitment to meaningful CSR initiatives like supporting advanced healthcare at Dr. N D Desai Hospital, where we can truly make a difference in people’s lives.”
Looking Ahead
The Desai Epilepsy Centre, supported by APAR and other institutional partners, is positioned to drive meaningful advancements in epilepsy care for the Gujarat region. By delivering comprehensive clinical services and fostering community engagement, the centre is dedicated to improving patient outcomes and breaking longstanding barriers. Continued collaboration among all stakeholders will be essential in sustaining these efforts and ensuring accessible, innovative treatment for those affected by epilepsy.
Read more at: https://www.desaiepilepsycenter.com/