Punjab Government Launches Free Cochlear Implant Surgeries Across State Hospitals
The government of Punjab has officially operationalized high-end cochlear implant surgeries free of cost across its tertiary care network. This groundbreaking initiative follows a successful procedure at Government Medical College in Amritsar, which paved the way for a robust four-node surgical framework designed to systematically eliminate childhood deafness throughout the state.
Statewide Network for Advanced Hearing Restoration
Cochlear implant surgeries are now fully operational at four key government medical institutions:
- Government Medical College and Hospital, Amritsar
- Government Medical College and Hospital, Patiala
- Government Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot
- Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Government Medical College and Hospital, SAS Nagar
This comprehensive statewide institutional network ensures that access to advanced hearing restoration is no longer geographically restricted, bringing critical medical care directly to communities across Punjab.
Eliminating Catastrophic Healthcare Costs
Cochlear implants represent one of the most expensive medical interventions available in modern healthcare. In the private sector, the procedure typically costs between ₹6,00,000 and ₹10,00,000 per ear. For most families, this substantial expense often translates into catastrophic healthcare debt or the heartbreaking decision to forgo treatment altogether, leaving children with permanent hearing loss.
Punjab's Health Minister Balbir Singh has reiterated the government's commitment to building an inclusive healthcare system where advanced medical care is accessible to every child, irrespective of financial background. "With this vision, the Bhagwant Mann government launched the Mukhya Mantri Sarvan Ashirwad Yojana, 'Sunan Da Haq Sabda', ensuring that no child is deprived of hearing due to economic constraints," Singh stated.
Comprehensive Coverage Under Government Scheme
Under this transformative initiative, the Punjab government is providing 100% free cochlear implant surgeries, bearing the entire cost including the implant device, surgical procedure, and hospitalization expenses. This represents a significant financial relief for families who would otherwise face insurmountable medical bills.
"Cochlear implant surgeries commenced in government medical colleges and are now available in all four government medical colleges of Punjab, completely free of cost," Minister Singh emphasized. "This marks a significant step toward equitable, specialized, and compassionate healthcare for all residents of our state."
The establishment of this surgical framework represents a major advancement in public healthcare infrastructure, particularly for pediatric audiology services. By removing both financial and geographical barriers to treatment, Punjab is setting a new standard for accessible healthcare that could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges with childhood deafness and expensive medical interventions.
