SRINAGAR: The State Cancer Institute (SCI) at Jammu has started operations but will take some more time to be fully operational, a high-level meeting presided over by Health Secretary, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah was told.
With an estimated cost of Rs 104 crore under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, CVD, and Stroke (NPCDCS),’ SCI Jammu aimed to fill the critical gaps in cancer treatment and diagnosis in the region.
The Secretary learned that SCI Jammu had already commenced its services. Outpatient services began on February 4, 2023, followed by inpatient services on November 6, 2023. Day care chemotherapy was also initiated. The numbers spoke volumes—7000 outpatient consultations, 4000 patients receiving cancer chemotherapy or treatments, and 1500 patients screened in 45 outreach screening camps. The National Board of Examination had approved two Diplomate of National Board (DNB) seats in Medical Oncology for SCI Jammu.
Abid urged executing agencies to complete civil works promptly – particularly the basement and 3rd floor in next one month, facilitating the installation of vital machinery like LINAC, Modular OTs, and CT Simulator. The Chief Engineer of R&B Jammu was entrusted with monitoring the project’s progress, emphasizing the need for mobilizing adequate manpower and materials.
In his pursuit of excellence, Dr Abid ascertained that the Brachytherapy System and PET scan would become operational within three months. The process of engaging essential manpower was deemed pivotal for the complete operationalisation of services, awaiting regulatory approvals from AERB and other agencies. He envisioned a future where patients received top-notch diagnostics and treatment for cancer, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses through government infrastructure and flagship schemes like AB PM-JAY SEHAT.
