Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 19: In a landmark move to make cancer treatment more accessible, the Karnataka government has announced plans to offer chemotherapy services in public hospitals.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao revealed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will inaugurate the initiative in Mysuru on May 23, with a plan to roll out day care Chemotherapy centres across district hospitals soon after.
Speaking at the inauguration of a new 300-bed Hospital branch on Hennur Road, Bengaluru, the minister said, “Our goal is to bring cancer treatment closer to the people. After the launch in Mysuru, these centres will be established in every district hospital to ensure affordable and quality care for cancer patients across the state.”
Currently, many cancer patients are forced to spend thousands of rupees on chemotherapy at private hospitals, as they often provide better facilities. Minister Rao noted, “Even the poorest patients are being driven to private hospitals for chemotherapy. This is an issue we are addressing by providing chemotherapy services in government-run healthcare institutions.”
The initiative aims to help thousands of families who struggle with the financial burden of cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy, which can cost a fortune. “With chemotherapy services in government hospitals, we expect to ease the financial strain and ensure that more people receive the care they need,” Rao emphasised.
In addition to the new chemotherapy initiative, the minister highlighted the importance of research and development in healthcare. “Private hospitals must increase their investments in research and development to make cancer treatments not only more affordable but also more accessible to all,” he urged.
The event also saw the participation of several prominent figures, including Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji of Suttur Mutt, medical education minister Sharan Prakash Patil, and former chief minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai, who extended their support for the new healthcare initiative.