The Maharashtra government is set to expand its cancer care network with the launch of 26 new cancer day-care centres across the state under the National Health Mission (NHM). Supported by the Tata Memorial Centre, these facilities aim to enhance early diagnosis, timely treatment, and accessible oncology care for patients in both urban and rural regions.
Officials said the initiative focuses on decentralising cancer services, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances to major hospitals like Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. Each centre will offer essential services such as chemotherapy, diagnostic tests, counselling, palliative care, and follow-up treatment. By bringing treatment closer to patients, the government hopes to improve survival rates and ease the financial burden associated with prolonged medical travel.
Health department sources revealed that the centres will be strategically located in district hospitals and high-load medical facilities to maximise reach. The Tata Memorial Centre will provide technical guidance, training, and quality control to ensure standardised cancer care across all centres.
Maharashtra Health Minister said the project marks a “major step toward strengthening cancer care at the grassroots level.” He added that many patients are diagnosed at advanced stages due to lack of accessibility, and these day-care units will help promote early detection through regular screening and awareness drives.
Officials also noted that cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Maharashtra. With rising cases of breast, oral, cervical, and lung cancers, improving early intervention is a top priority for the state.
The new cancer day-care centres are expected to become operational in phases within the coming months. Authorities believe the initiative will significantly strengthen Maharashtra’s public health infrastructure and make specialised cancer care more affordable and accessible to thousands of families.
