Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) recently inaugurated a comprehensive free speech and hearing camp, an initiative slated to run from September 21 to 26, 2026. Organized by the Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing, this specialized camp aims to provide crucial assessments and support for individuals experiencing communication difficulties, coinciding with International Hearing-Impaired Week.
The program's inauguration saw Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), presiding over the event. Dr. Venkatesha B. M., Vice Dean of Father Muller Medical College and Professor in the Department of Medicine, attended as the chief guest.
Dr. Venkatesha commended the hospital's initiative, highlighting its value for those struggling with hearing, speech, and swallowing issues. He emphasized that early assessment, proper treatment, and expert guidance significantly enhance quality of life. The provision of assessments and assistive devices at concessional rates, he noted, improves access to specialized care within the community. Fr. Lobo underscored the fundamental role of hearing and speech in effective communication, stating that “Good communication requires good hearing and proper speech.” He stressed that the ability to hear, speak, and communicate is vital across all life stages, from childhood to old age, enabling full societal participation and connection.
Operating from OPD No. 67 on the third floor of the FMMCH Utility Block, the camp offers a range of free services. These include registration and audiological evaluations. Participants also benefit from a 40% discount on hearing aids, along with evaluations for vestibular function, language, voice, fluency, articulation, and swallowing. Qualified speech and hearing professionals conduct all consultations and assessments. The camp runs daily in two sessions: mornings from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The initiative seeks to raise awareness, facilitate early diagnosis, and promote timely interventions for various conditions, including mild to profound hearing loss, articulation difficulties, voice disorders, stammering, and language delays. These issues can affect both children and adults, sometimes stemming from congenital factors, gradual development, illness, injury, or medication. Fr. Lobo urged the public to disseminate information about the camp, encouraging community members to help neighbors access these crucial services. “Let your neighbour know of the same, so that we can share this joy of hearing and communicating,” he appealed. As an added benefit, all participants will receive a free Father Muller Health Card, providing exclusive discounts on future consultations and diagnostic services.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalorean News