Bhandara gets 1st cancer screening bus, Maha roll out soon
2
Nagpur: In a significant push towards early cancer detection in rural and remote areas, Maharashtra's Public Health Department began deploying mobile cancer screening vans across the state.
Bhandara district inaugurated its first such facility — a 'Pink Bus' fitted with a mobile cancer screening unit — which will tour villages and towns to screen citizens for various cancers.
The initiative was formally launched at the District Hospital in Bhandara. The mobile unit aims to provide timely diagnosis and treatment access to people living in far-flung regions, potentially saving countless lives through early intervention.
At the event, citizens were urged not to delay screenings and to take proactive steps for their health.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Bhandara Lok Sabha MP Dr Prashant Padole, district collector Sanjay Kolte, Zilla Parishad health committee chairperson Anandji Malewar, civil surgeon Dr Deepchand Soyyam, district health officer Dr Milind Somkuwar, as well as doctors, nurses, and hospital staff in large numbers.
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Speaking about the broader rollout in the state, minister of state for public health Meghna Sakore-Bordikar informed the legislative assembly that eight cancer detection vans have already been procured through a competitive bidding process on the govt e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. Each van comes equipped with 44 medical devices, along with customised interiors and necessary furnishings.
"These mobile vans will enable timely diagnosis and immediate treatment for cancer patients, especially in underserved regions," Bordikar said.
She further assured that tenders will soon be floated to procure similar cancer detection buses for all districts in Maharashtra.
However, the procurement process has come under scrutiny, with some elected representatives raising queries about the tendering procedure.
Bordikar clarified that a thorough investigation is underway by the Directorate of Health Services, and a report is expected before the conclusion of the ongoing assembly session.
Health officials expressed confidence that the initiative will significantly enhance cancer care efficiency in districts like Bhandara and contribute to saving lives through prompt detection and intervention.
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