Himachal Pradesh Government Announces Advanced Cancer Care Centre in Hamirpur
In a significant move to bolster healthcare infrastructure, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Thursday that the state government is establishing a state-of-the-art Cancer Care Centre (CCC) at Dr Radhakrishnan Government Medical College (Dr RKGMC) in Hamirpur. This initiative aims to strengthen cancer treatment facilities across Himachal Pradesh, addressing the growing need for specialized medical services in the region.
Comprehensive Medical Departments for Holistic Cancer Care
Chief Minister Sukhu detailed that the new centre will feature 11 specialized departments designed to comprehensively meet the medical needs of cancer patients. These departments include:
- Medical Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Pain Palliation
- Nuclear Medicine
- Anaesthesiology and Critical Care
- Onco Pathology
- Paediatric Oncology
- Radiology Imaging
- Gynaecological Oncology
- Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplantation
- Radiation Oncology
This facility will offer advanced and specialized treatment under one roof, ensuring that patients receive integrated care without the need to travel to multiple locations.
Addressing the Rising Cancer Risk in Himachal Pradesh
Sukhu expressed concern over the state's high cancer incidence rate, emphasizing that the rising risk among the population makes it essential to develop a robust and systematic treatment mechanism. He highlighted that several reports have underscored the urgent need for structured screening, prevention, monitoring, documentation, and timely intervention to combat cancer effectively.
The chief minister stressed the importance of creating seamless linkages between primary healthcare institutions and advanced tertiary-level cancer care centres. With a strong focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and comprehensive patient care, the state government has initiated the establishment of this state cancer centre at Dr RKGMC, Hamirpur. The department of medical education has already taken necessary steps in this direction to ensure the project's success.
Infrastructure and Key Facilities of the Proposed Cancer Institute
The proposed state cancer institute will be housed in a multi-storey building with a capacity of 264 beds dedicated exclusively to cancer patients. Key facilities will be strategically located to enhance accessibility and efficiency:
- Outpatient Departments (OPDs) on the ground floor for easy access
- Laboratories for diagnostic and research purposes
- A fully stocked pharmacy to provide medications
- Emergency services to handle urgent cases
- Nuclear medicine units for advanced imaging and treatment
Sukhu emphasized that this initiative is vital to ensure accessible and quality cancer care for the residents of Himachal Pradesh, marking a significant step forward in the state's healthcare landscape.
