The Thalolam Scheme: Free Treatment for Cerebral Palsy in Kerala – Eligibility Explained
- Team Pranaah
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
The Thalolam Scheme: Free Treatment for Cerebral Palsy in Kerala – Eligibility Explained
For many families in Kerala, managing the medical and therapy needs of a child with Cerebral Palsy (CP) can feel overwhelming—emotionally and financially. Cerebral palsy often requires long-term physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, orthopaedic care, medications, and periodic assessments. Recognising this burden, the Government of Kerala introduced the Thalolam Scheme, a powerful social-security initiative that ensures free medical care for medically vulnerable children.
At Pranaah Child Development Centre, Kollam, we guide parents through therapy planning—and also help them understand the government schemes available to support their child’s treatment. This blog explains the Thalolam Scheme in simple terms, including eligibility, benefits, and how families can apply.
What Is the Thalolam Scheme?
The Thalolam Scheme is a child-focused healthcare assistance programme under the Kerala Social Security Mission (KSSM).Its purpose is straightforward:
👉 To provide free treatment for children with serious illnesses, including Cerebral Palsy, in government-empanelled hospitals across Kerala.
The scheme covers essential medical expenses such as:
Surgery
Hospitalisation
Investigations
Medicines
Long-term treatment for chronic conditions
It ensures that no child is denied healthcare due to financial limitations.
Is Cerebral Palsy Covered Under Thalolam?
Yes.Cerebral palsy is one of the key medical conditions covered under the scheme. Children with CP often require continued medical support, and Thalolam helps reduce the financial load on families.
Key Benefits of the Thalolam Scheme (For CP Treatment)
1. Free Treatment for Children Below 18
The scheme covers medical expenses for eligible children up to the age of 18 years.
2. Initial Financial Assistance
Families receive ₹50,000 as an initial treatment support for approved conditions.
3. Additional Treatment Support
In special cases—such as surgeries, long-term treatment, or recurring therapy needs—further financial assistance may be provided based on medical recommendations.
4. Wide Range of Empanelled Hospitals
Thalolam operates through multiple empanelled hospitals across Kerala, including district hospitals, medical colleges, and speciality institutions.
5. Covers Multiple Developmental & Medical Conditions
In addition to Cerebral Palsy, the scheme supports conditions such as:
Congenital anomalies
Orthopaedic deformities
Haemophilia
Kidney & liver diseases
Neurological disorders
Childhood cancers
Accident cases requiring emergency treatment
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To avail of benefits under the Thalolam Scheme, the child must meet these conditions:
✔ Age Requirement
The child must be below 18 years.
✔ Medical Condition
The child must have a listed eligible condition such as:
Cerebral Palsy
Developmental neurological disorders
Congenital abnormalities
Orthopaedic deformities
Other serious chronic diseases
✔ Financial Need
Priority is given to families from economically weaker sections.However, the scheme is not limited strictly to BPL families—medical necessity is the core criterion.
✔ Kerala Residency
At least one parent or guardian must be a resident of Kerala.
How to Apply for the Thalolam Scheme
Applying is simple if parents have the required documents and medical records ready.
Step 1: Get a Medical Certificate
A paediatrician, neurologist, or specialist must confirm the child’s medical condition.
Step 2: Collect Required Documents
You’ll need:
Child’s Aadhaar
Parent’s Aadhaar
Ration card / Income certificate
Medical certificate / hospital records
Passport-size photographs
Step 3: Submit Application
You can apply through:
Option A — Hospital Submission
Submit the application directly at an empanelled hospital.
Option B — Kerala Social Security Mission (KSSM)
Submit through the official KSSM portal or District Social Justice Office.
Step 4: Approval & Treatment
Once approved, the child can start receiving free treatment under the scheme.
How Pranaah Child Development Centre Helps Parents
At Pranaah CDC, Kollam, we work closely with families of children diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Our support includes:
Developmental assessments
Occupational therapy
Physiotherapy referral guidance
Speech therapy
Early intervention
Behaviour therapy
Parent training and emotional support
Guidance on government schemes like Niramaya, Thalolam, & Karunya
While Thalolam mainly covers hospital-based treatment, Pranaah helps parents create a complete therapy plan and navigate the process with clarity.
Why Awareness Matters
Many parents do not know that their child is eligible for free treatment under Thalolam.By raising awareness, more families can access medical care without financial stress.
Final Thoughts
The Thalolam Scheme is a lifeline for families navigating the challenges of Cerebral Palsy. With the right treatment, early intervention, and continued support, children with CP can learn, grow, and thrive.
At Pranaah Child Development Centre, Kollam, our mission is to guide families with both professional care and accurate information—ensuring every child’s right to quality healthcare.
Located in Kollam (with a presence in Kottarakkara), Pranaah CDC has established itself as a key player in the region's pediatric healthcare. It is not just a clinic; it is a comprehensive ecosystem designed to bridge the gap between diagnosis and intervention.
Pranaah Child Development Centre is a trusted paediatric therapy and early intervention centre associated with Pranaah Counselling Centre in Kollam, Kerala. We support children with developmental delays, communication challenges, behavioural concerns, sensory needs, autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties. Moreover we provide mental health support to all age groups since 2013.
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