Rehabilitation Home - Leprosy
Leprosy
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that has long been stigmatized in India. The mission of the Home has been to prevent disability and provide comprehensive medical care to individuals affected by leprosy. In addition, the Home works to reduce the occurrence of new cases through community education and outreach.
Patients come from across Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states to receive care at the 200-bed RamDev Rao Hospital, which is equipped with facilities for reconstructive surgery, physiotherapy, X-ray services, clinical laboratories, .
In addition to medical treatment, patients have access to orthopedic and cobblery workshops and also receive vocational training in tailoring, weaving, and candle making, producing clothing and uniforms for hospital use as well as for sale to the public. The technical rehabilitation workshop offers instruction in arc and gas welding, machining, spray painting, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Some patients are also eligible to receive small loans from a revolving fund to support nursing training and educational advancement.
Founded as a rehabilitation home for destitute individuals affected by leprosy, SRH has grown into one of the region’s leading service, training, and research institutions. Many of the hand reconstructive surgical techniques pioneered at SRH have been presented at national and international conferences. The Plastic Surgery Department of Gandhi Medical College Hospital, along with plastic surgeons from Surgicorps International (USA), has visited SRH to observe these innovative hand surgery techniques and to train postgraduate students.
As a result of sustained efforts led by SRH, the prevalence of leprosy in the project area declined dramatically—from 90.2 per 10,000 in 1978 to fewer than one per 10,000 by 2003. For decades, SRH relied on government support to sustain its leprosy programs; however, recent years have seen a significant decline in public funding. Despite the progress made, many individuals affected by leprosy continue to go untreated. Donations are urgently needed to ensure the continuation of these vital services.
