Helpline for childhood neurodevelopmental disorders started at AIIMS

Union Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel launched a round-the-clock toll-free helpline and tele-consultation service for people seeking help and advice on childhood neurodevelopmental disorders at AIIMS here today.

The toll-free helpline 1800-11-7776 will be managed by four trained nurse counsellors and they will work under the supervision of resident doctors and faculty of the pediatric department. AIIMS will also provide tele-consultation services on the same number for those aged between 1 month and 18 years.

"Any parent or care giver of a child with any neurological problem can obtain free information or guidance by calling up the National Child Neurology helpline," professor of Pediatric Neurology Sheffali Gulati said.

She said, "More than half of the patients seeking pediatric consultations have neurodevelopmental disorders. The interplay of multiple social and demographic factors in the developing world adversely influence childhood neurodevelopment."