A new Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) Centre was inaugurated at the AYUSH building on the AIIMS Patna premises on Thursday, marking a significant expansion of HIV/AIDS treatment access in Bihar. With this addition, the total number of ART centres in the state has now reached 35.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
The facility is designed to strengthen Bihar's healthcare network by providing treatment, counselling, and follow-up services for people living with HIV in a single location. This integrated approach is expected to ease the burden on existing centres and improve access to specialised care for patients from Patna and surrounding districts.
Official Statements
Sumit Kumar, project director of the Bihar State AIDS Control Society, emphasised the importance of expanding accessible and stigma-free HIV treatment facilities. He stated, "Expanding accessible and stigma-free HIV treatment facilities is essential to strengthen care services. The new centre will play an important role in improving advanced treatment and support for patients."
(Brig) Dr Raju Agarwal, executive director-cum-CEO of AIIMS Patna, highlighted that the initiative reflects the institute's commitment to inclusive, accessible, and patient-centric healthcare. He stressed that HIV/AIDS should be treated purely as a medical condition, without discrimination or social exclusion.
Dr Jyoti Prakash, nodal officer of the ART Centre and head of general medicine, noted that the facility would ensure timely treatment, regular monitoring, counselling, and an improved quality of life for patients.
Call for Coordinated Efforts
Speakers at the inauguration underscored the need for coordinated efforts among healthcare institutions, government agencies, and society to build an inclusive, discrimination-free environment for people living with HIV.
The event was attended by faculty members, healthcare workers, nursing officers, administrative officials, and staff from AIIMS Patna and the Bihar State AIDS Control Society.
