AIIMS Bhopal builds MP’s first cancer block:Over 36,000 patients yearly to get priority treatment with screening, PET-CT Gamma Knife therapy

A centralized cancer block, the first in the state, is being prepared at AIIMS for cancer patients in Madhya Pradesh. This will start by 2026. In this modern block, cancer patients will get advanced facilities like gamma knife and PET-CT scan in one place. Currently, patients are facing long waiting times for treatment at the institute. There is a waiting period of 6 months to one year for tests like CT scan and MRI. This centralized block is being prepared to save patients from these difficulties. Facilities from diagnosis to 6 types of treatments In the new cancer block, patients will get all services from diagnosis to treatment at one place. It will have facilities for chemotherapy, surgery, target therapy, radiation therapy, mental health counseling and stem cell treatment. AIIMS administration says that currently cancer patients have to wander in different departments. Tests are done at one place, surgery at another place and radiation at a third place. But after this block starts, all specialists will work together and make joint decisions according to the patient’s condition. A ‘preference system’ will be developed for serious patients
A smart screening system is being developed in this new block of AIIMS. Every patient coming to the hospital will first have to go through a screening unit. Here doctors will examine them and determine whether the patient has cancer or not. Patients who are confirmed to have cancer will be classified based on severity. This will allow patients in serious condition to receive treatment on priority with less waiting time. Meanwhile, patients who are only suspected of having cancer will be referred to other relevant departments for necessary tests. Maximum patients from these districts of MP According to AIIMS Bhopal data, more than 36 thousand cancer patients come for treatment every year. About 60% of these patients are from outside Bhopal. The districts with highest cases are Agar Malwa (3664), Raisen (1776), Vidisha (1536), Narmadapuram (1216), Sagar (1072), Rewa (944). However, the main reason is geographical proximity to Bhopal. This also raises the question of why cancer treatment facilities are not strong in civil hospitals or medical colleges of these districts? Director said – Focus also on research-clinical trials AIIMS Bhopal Executive Director Dr. Madhavanand Kar said that this cancer block will change the direction of cancer treatment in the state. Every cancer patient needs comprehensive treatment. Currently, patients have to run around different departments. With the start of this block, surgery, chemo and radiation will all be possible under one roof. Dr. Madhavanand also said that there will be focus on research and clinical trials here, so that accurate treatment can be started at the early symptoms of cancer.