Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Jun 4: In a major boost to cancer care services, Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane has announced that chemotherapy treatment will be made available at both the North Goa District Hospital and the South Goa District Hospital from June 11.

The initiative aims to decentralise cancer treatment services and make specialised healthcare more accessible to patients across the state. Until now, many cancer patients were required to travel to Goa Medical College (GMC) for chemotherapy sessions, often facing challenges related to travel, time and expenses.

Announcing the development, Rane said the introduction of chemotherapy facilities at the district hospital level would significantly reduce the burden on patients and their families by bringing essential treatment closer to their homes.

The move is also expected to ease pressure on Goa Medical College by distributing patient load across multiple healthcare centres while strengthening oncology services within the state's public healthcare system.

Health officials said the new facilities would particularly benefit patients from remote and rural areas who previously had to undertake frequent journeys to access treatment.

The commencement of chemotherapy services at both district hospitals marks a significant step towards enhancing healthcare infrastructure and expanding specialised medical services in Goa.

The state government believes the initiative will improve access to timely cancer treatment and contribute to better healthcare outcomes for patients across the state.