Haryana Government Expands Cancer Care Network with New Daycare Centres
The Haryana government is taking a significant step forward in healthcare accessibility by rolling out new cancer daycare centres in 17 districts across the state. This initiative, which includes a facility in Gurgaon, is designed to cut down on the long travel hours that patients often endure and provide easier access to essential chemotherapy treatments locally.
Virtual Inauguration on World Cancer Day
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is likely to virtually inaugurate these units on Wednesday, coinciding with World Cancer Day. The timing underscores the state's commitment to addressing cancer care challenges and improving patient outcomes through enhanced infrastructure.
Gurgaon Centre Details and Operational Guidelines
The Gurgaon centre, established in a Sector 10 government hospital, is equipped with six beds and is set to begin treatment operations. However, access to these facilities will be regulated. According to Dr Priya Sharma, deputy civil surgeon in Gurgaon, only patients who have been referred will be treated at the daycare centres.
"There will be no direct walk-ins. Only patients referred after assessment and first chemotherapy at AIIMS Bhadsa in Jhajjar will be treated here," Dr Sharma explained. This referral system ensures that patients receive coordinated care and that the centres are utilized efficiently for follow-up treatments.
Specialized Staff and Training
To ensure high-quality care, two doctors and two nurses who underwent specialized training at the Bhadsa hospital will be posted at the Gurgaon facility. This training equips them with the necessary skills to manage chemotherapy and related procedures, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of treatments provided at the new centres.
Easing Treatment Burden on Patients
Chief medical officer of Gurgaon, Dr Lokveer Singh, highlighted the expected benefits of this expansion. "Till now, many cancer patients travelled to other districts or Jhajjar for every chemotherapy cycle. With this centre operational, treatment will be available locally, saving both time and money for patients and their attendants," he said. This local access is crucial for reducing the physical and financial strain on individuals battling cancer.
Expansion from Previous Facilities
Previously, Haryana had cancer daycare facilities in only five districts: Kurukshetra, Yamunanagar, Panchkula, Ambala, and Rohtak. With the addition of these 17 new centres, an official noted that every district in the state will now have a dedicated unit. This widespread coverage marks a substantial improvement in the state's healthcare infrastructure for cancer care.
Rising Cancer Cases in Haryana
The expansion comes at a critical time, as Haryana has witnessed a steady rise in cancer cases over the past years. Estimated figures from the Indian Council of Medical Research's National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) reveal:
- In 2020, Haryana recorded about 29,219 cancer cases.
- By 2022, this number had increased to 30,851 cases.
- In 2024 alone, the state recorded around 30,475 new cancer diagnoses, which amounts to approximately 83 new cases every day.
This growing incidence underscores the urgent need for enhanced and accessible cancer care services across the state.
Conclusion
The launch of these 17 new cancer daycare centres represents a proactive move by the Haryana government to address the healthcare needs of its residents. By reducing travel burdens, providing local treatment options, and ensuring specialized staff, this initiative aims to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families. As the state continues to grapple with rising cancer cases, such expansions in healthcare infrastructure are vital for effective disease management and patient support.
