Odisha Government and AIG Hospitals in Talks to Establish Advanced Health Sciences Research Centre
The Odisha government is in advanced discussions with AIG Hospitals, based in Hyderabad, to set up a state-of-the-art research centre for advanced health sciences in the state. This initiative aims to bolster medical research, technology transfer, and training for healthcare professionals, marking a significant step forward in Odisha's healthcare infrastructure.
Early-Stage Plans and Key Discussions
Santosh Kumar Sahoo, the senior vice-president of AIG Hospitals, revealed to media persons in Bhubaneswar on Sunday that the plan is currently in its early stages. He emphasized that the proposed centre will focus on knowledge and technology transfer, training programs, academics, medical research, and other related activities. Sahoo was accompanied by Odisha's law minister, Prithiviraj Harichandan, during the announcement.
Harichandan elaborated on the discussions, stating, "During my conversation with Dr. D Nageshwar Reddy, chairman of AIG Hospitals, he agreed to establish a research centre in Odisha. This facility will conduct cutting-edge research on new medical technologies and provide comprehensive training to healthcare professionals, among other mandates." He further confirmed that he has discussed the matter with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, indicating high-level governmental support for the project.
Focus on Liver Transplantation and Past Collaborations
In addition to the research centre, the Odisha government is exploring a partnership with AIG Hospitals to resume liver transplantation procedures at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Harichandan highlighted that the government is actively working to tie up with AIG for this purpose, aiming to enhance critical care services in the state.
Sahoo recalled previous collaborations, noting, "We had earlier partnered with the Odisha government and initiated liver transplant procedures at SCB Medical College. We successfully conducted two liver transplants there, and we are now considering a proposal to renew this partnership with the state government."
SCB Medical College made history on April 3, 2024, by becoming the first government hospital in Odisha to perform a liver transplant, followed by a second procedure on September 9 last year. However, these efforts were halted after the agreement between the Odisha government and AIG Hospitals expired, underscoring the need for a renewed and sustained collaboration.
Future Steps and Government Commitment
Harichandan announced that the chairman of AIG Hospitals will soon engage in detailed discussions with Chief Minister Majhi and the health minister to finalize plans for the proposed research centre. This move reflects the state government's commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation and international partnerships.
The establishment of this research centre is expected to position Odisha as a hub for medical excellence, leveraging AIG Hospitals' expertise to address local healthcare challenges and improve patient outcomes across the region.
