Bhubaneawar/Cuttack, October 13: In a major boost to cancer care in Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday dedicated the sophisticated PET-CT Scan facility at Acharya Harihar Post Graduate Institute of Cancer (AHPGI) in Cuttack. The facility is first-of-its-kind in any State Govt-run hospital.
The Chief Minister launched the services through video conferencing from Naveen Niwas in Bhubaneswar.
“The PET-CT scan is one of the central pillars in cancer management,” said Patnaik adding that along with LINAC machine more facilities are being developed for diagnosis and treatment. The number of beds at IPD increased from 281 to 507, while the number of ICU beds increased to 20.
Mentioning that the facilities will be immensely helpful in boosting cancer care and management at AHPGI, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that it will bring a huge relief for patients.
Highlighting on further development of AHPGIC, he said that the government has included its further expansion under the SCB redevelopment plan. A new OT complex, OPD, Pathology, academic area and resident hostels will also be developed under this plan.
He also called upon doctors, paramedical staff to treat patients with empathy and create confidence in them.
The informed that further expansion of AHPGI has been included under the SCB redevelopment plan.
“Government has approved cancer care unit in 10 districts to strengthen cancer care. I hope the steps will help in making Odisha a hub of cancer care in eastern region of country,” added Patnaik.
Health Minister Naba Das, Department Secretary Shalini Pandit, Cuttack-Choudwar MLA Souvik Biswal also spoke.
