Free Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery Camp to Be Held in Pimpri on August 7
Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre in Pimpri will organise a free cleft lip and palate surgery camp for children on Friday, August 7, offering diagnosis, surgery and complete treatment at no cost. The initiative is being conducted in collaboration with Mission Smile and Kotak Mahindra as part of a social outreach programme to improve access to specialised care for children from economically weaker families.
The camp will be held from 9 am to 4 pm at the Plastic Surgery Outpatient Department (OPD No. 5A) on the first floor of the hospital’s building. Children diagnosed with cleft lip or cleft palate will undergo medical evaluation, and those found eligible will be admitted for further treatment.
According to the hospital, all expenses related to laboratory investigations, surgery, medicines, post-operative care, hospital stay and meals for both the patient and one accompanying family member will be covered free of cost. The organisers said the programme aims to remove financial barriers that often delay treatment for children with these congenital conditions.
Doctors said children born with cleft lip and cleft palate can experience difficulties with feeding, speech and facial development. If left untreated, the condition can also affect their emotional well-being and social confidence. Early surgical intervention, they said, improves both functional and cosmetic outcomes while supporting normal growth and development.
Dr. Bhagyashree Patil, Pro-Chancellor of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), said the institution remains committed to ensuring that children are not denied advanced medical treatment because of financial constraints. She said the initiative reflects the university’s focus on compassionate and inclusive healthcare.
Dr. Yashraj P. Patil, Trustee and Treasurer of the university, said the partnership with Mission Smile and Kotak Mahindra enables the hospital to provide comprehensive surgical treatment and follow-up care without cost to families. He added that the objective extends beyond correcting a medical condition to helping children lead healthier and more confident lives.
Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, said timely multidisciplinary care is essential for children with cleft deformities. She said the hospital’s plastic surgery team will provide specialised treatment supported by comprehensive patient care services throughout the recovery process.
The hospital has appealed to parents and guardians of children born with cleft lip or cleft palate to register for the camp and seek early treatment. Registrations and enquiries can be made by calling +91 70444 24477.
Jayant Mahajan is a writer and contributor at PuneNow, covering the intersection of technology, climate action, and urban governance across Pune. With an extensive background in business management, digital transformation, and academia, Jayant brings real-world insight to local sustainability issues, from civic infrastructure to smart city data ethics. As an educator and founder of the Change Before Climate Change mission, he focuses on how Pune’s institutions and businesses can build future-ready, sustainable systems. Through his columns, Jayant bridges policy, technology, and practical action to help Punekars navigate a rapidly changing urban climate.
