Sarathi Project
Started in 2026
Project SARATHI
A student volunteer initiative of
Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh
Vision : To create a patient-friendly hospital environment by engaging students in compassionate patient assistance, navigation and communication, while fostering empathy, responsibility and community service among young volunteers.
Project SARATHI is a student volunteer initiative of the Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, aimed at assisting patients and their attendants in navigating hospital services and accessing appropriate points of care. The project brings together students from schools and colleges to support patients while developing their communication, coordination, and community service skills.
Launch of the Project
Project SARATHI was launched at GMCH on 3rd May 2026 by Prof. Ravneet Kaur, Director Principal, GMCH , Dr Vishal Guglani, Medical Superintendent and Mr Nemi Chand. The Nodal officer of project are Dr Vanita Ahuja, Deputy Medical Superintendent , along with Dr Kiran Prakash and Dr Deepak Sharma. The initiative began with the deployment of trained student volunteers in patient care areas to provide guidance, assistance, and support during hospital visits.
Key Components of the Project :
Patient Assistance
Volunteers assist patients and attendants, particularly those requiring additional support, in navigating the hospital and accessing various services.
Patient Navigation
Volunteers guide patients to the appropriate OPD, department, counter and other service points, helping reduce confusion within the hospital.
Volunteer Training
Students undergo orientation and training to equip them with the knowledge and communication skills required for effective patient assistance.
Exposure & Learning
Participation provides students with practical exposure to the healthcare environment and develops communication, teamwork, empathy and community-service skills.
Recognition & Certification
Volunteers are recognised for their contribution and receive certification for their participation in Project SARATHI.
Stakeholder Involvement :
Project SARATHI is supported through collaboration between GMCH administration, the project coordination team, NSS, and student volunteers from schools and colleges. The involvement of educational institutions enables students to participate in structured community service while contributing to patient assistance within the hospital.
Role of SARATHI Volunteers :
- Guiding patients and attendants within the hospital.
- Assisting patients in locating OPDs and service areas.
- Supporting elderly and physically challenged patients.
- Helping patients understand hospital processes .
- Facilitating communication where required.
- Assisting with queue and patient-flow management.
- Providing basic information regarding available hospital services, including Government of India Health Schemes .
- Supporting patients in accessing digital and other hospital-related services.
Impact of Project SARATHI :
For Patients
- Easier navigation of hospital services.
- Improved access to information and guidance.
- Assistance during hospital visits
- Reduced confusion and difficulty in accessing services.
For Students
- Exposure to the healthcare environment.
- Improved communication and interpersonal skills.
- Development of empathy and teamwork.
- Opportunity for meaningful community service.