The Tamil Nadu Government has launched NalamAI, a WhatsApp-based chatbot that enables patients to book Outpatient (OP) appointments at government hospitals digitally, aiming to reduce waiting time and improve access to public healthcare services. The initiative was launched by Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. K. G. Arunraj. Citizens can send “Hi” to 96192 22999 on WhatsApp, complete a one-time registration, and schedule OP appointments from their mobile phones without visiting hospitals in advance. The service has been introduced to streamline patient registration, reduce overcrowding, and improve hospital queue management through digital technology. In the first phase, the facility has been rolled out across 22 districts, including Chennai and Chengalpattu, and is expected to expand statewide after evaluation. The pilot implementation has begun at the Department of Respiratory Medicine, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai. Officials said the chatbot also provides appointment-related guidance and simplifies access to government healthcare services. The initiative forms part of the state’s broader effort to strengthen digital healthcare delivery and improve patient convenience.
Key Highlights
Dr. K. G. Arunraj, Health and Family Welfare Department, NalamAI, Government Hospitals, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital
WhatsApp-based OP booking, reduced waiting time, improved patient flow, enhanced digital healthcare access
Government healthcare modernization, technology-driven public services, easier patient registration, phased statewide expansion
WhatsApp number 9619222999, send “Hi” to begin registration, first phase covering 22 districts, pilot launched at the Department of Respiratory Medicine
The Health and Family Welfare Department has confirmed that NalamAI will be expanded to more government hospitals across Tamil Nadu after assessing the performance of the pilot phase.
