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Kerala Budget Boosts SMA Treatment with ₹30 Crore
7 Feb
Summary
- Kerala earmarks ₹30 crore in Budget for Spinal Muscular Atrophy treatment.
- SMA treatment coverage expanded to children up to 12 years of age.
- Free Scoliosis surgery is also provided for spinal curvature correction.
The State government has committed ₹30 crore in its recent Budget to guarantee ongoing treatment facilities for those affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). This significant allocation underscores the state's dedication to addressing rare diseases.
The government's support for SMA began as a pilot project in 2022 at SAT Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, offering free Evrysdi medication. Initially for children up to five, coverage expanded to those up to seven in 2023.
Further enhancing this support, the Kerala United Against Rare Diseases (KARE) scheme, launched in 2024, extends treatment aid to children up to 12 years old. Currently, 110 children benefit from this program, with the government also providing free Scoliosis surgery.
Patient collective Cure SMA has applauded the budgetary provision, recognizing its vital importance for parents managing the challenges of SMA care and striving for their children's well-being and survival.
