Cochin Cancer Research Centre will be developed into centre of excellence, says Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan
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Cochin Cancer Research Centre. | Photo Credit: file photo
Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has said that the government would provide all support to develop the Cochin Cancer Research Centre into an excellent treatment and research institution. He was speaking while inaugurating the institution’s tenth-anniversary celebrations.
A comprehensive development plan for the next five years should be prepared and implemented in phases, he said. He also suggested formulating a roadmap detailing the targets that need to be achieved and the activities to be undertaken each year.
The Chief Minister noted that public sector institutions play a crucial role in making cancer treatment accessible at an affordable cost to the common people. ”Considering the rising number of cancer patients in Keralam, a comprehensive research is required to identify the causes behind the reporting of the disease. Emphasis should be placed on disease prevention and early diagnosis, along with treatment,” he said.
He said that the Centre should evolve into an institution that excels not only as a premier treatment centre but also in the field of research. “The high costs charged in the private sector for cancer treatment and diagnostic tests lead to financial burden on families. Considering this situation, the government is seriously considering establishing facilities in the public sector to conduct tests at lower rates,” he added.
The possibility of providing medical tests free of charge to those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds will also be examined. The Chief Minister also pointed out the importance of making high quality and effective generic medicines available as alternatives to expensive medications.
Public sector healthcare systems must be strengthened to prevent situations where families are forced to mortgage their homes and land to pay for cancer treatment. The cost of medical treatment should not destroys a family’s financial stability, he said.
The Chief Minister also announced that an outstanding amount of ₹5.25 crore had been sanctioned for the development of the Cochin Cancer Research Centre. The event, held at the Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort, was attended by Vypeen MLA Tony Chammany, Kalamassery municipal chairman Jamal Manakkadan, among others.
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