Significant Increase in Neurology Patients at Visakhapatnam's VIMS
The Visakha Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS) in Visakhapatnam has reported a substantial rise in outpatient cases within its neurology department. According to recent data, the average number of cases has escalated from approximately 1,500 in 2025 to nearly 2,500 in the first three months of the current year. This represents a significant increase of about 67%, highlighting a growing demand for neurological care in the region.
Free Treatment for Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Other Conditions
Dr. K. Rambabu, the director of VIMS, explained that the institute has been actively treating various neurological disorders, including brain stroke, epilepsy, nerve weakness, paralysis, muscular dystrophy, and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). In 2025, VIMS provided free treatment to 18 GBS patients, and an additional five have been treated this year. One notable case involved a 32-year-old woman with GBS who received 50 IVIG injections, with a total cost of around Rs 8 lakh, all covered under the NTR Vaidya Seva scheme.
Dr. Rambabu emphasized, "GBS treatment in private hospitals can cost several lakhs. A standard treatment includes around 25 IVIG injections costing about Rs 15,000 each, along with physiotherapy. At VIMS, we offer this under government schemes, making it accessible to all."
Rising Cases of Brain Strokes and Comprehensive Care
Brain stroke cases have also seen a notable presence at VIMS, with 503 patients treated last year and 200 so far this year. Early treatment is crucial for stroke patients, typically requiring interventions within a few hours, including injections costing around Rs 50,000. The neurology department at VIMS is equipped with ICU and ward facilities, ensuring that admitted patients receive treatment based on medical necessity.
Dr. Rambabu added, "People with neurological diseases in this region earlier depended mainly on corporate hospitals. In recent years, VIMS has expanded its services, leading to increased patient numbers. We provide comprehensive care under the NTR Vaidya Seva scheme, which covers the cost of these procedures."
Impact of Government Schemes on Healthcare Accessibility
The surge in patient numbers at VIMS can be attributed to the availability of free treatment under government schemes like NTR Vaidya Seva. This has made high-cost procedures, such as those for GBS and brain strokes, affordable for the general public. The institute's efforts have shifted dependency from corporate hospitals to public healthcare facilities, improving accessibility for neurological care in Visakhapatnam and surrounding areas.
With ongoing advancements in medical infrastructure and continued support from government initiatives, VIMS aims to further enhance its neurology department to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community.
