The Government of Kerala, through its pioneering Kerala United Against Rare Diseases (KARE) scheme, is setting a national benchmark in the treatment of rare diseases by providing free and advanced care to both children and adults. Over the past three years, 107 children have received completely free treatment under this initiative, significantly contributing to the state’s efforts in reducing infant mortality.

Kerala is the first state in India to provide free treatment to all children below 18 years of age diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Initially limited to children under six, the age limit was first extended to 12 years and is now applicable to all minors. This expanded support ensures the free supply of life-saving medicines worth crores of rupees annually.

Under the Comprehensive Assistance for Rare Diseases (CARE) scheme, children with lysosomal storage disorders receive free medicines worth ₹20 lakh per month. Furthermore, individuals suffering from other rare diseases with treatment costs up to ₹50 lakh are supported through the Centre of Excellence at SAT Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram. The government is also exploring avenues such as crowdfunding to expand treatment accessibility. Notably, Kerala was the first state to adopt the hub-and-spoke model for rare disease treatment in the country.

An SMA clinic has been established at the SAT Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, and a specialized surgery costing around ₹15 lakh to correct spinal deformities in SMA-affected children is being conducted free of cost at the Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram.

This model initiative, implemented with public participation, continues to position Kerala at the forefront of inclusive and equitable healthcare. As the state marks the fourth year of free SMA treatment, it reaffirms its commitment to ensuring world-class healthcare services for individuals living with rare diseases.