Chemotherapy Center in Maharashtra Faces Staffing and Medicine Shortages

A chemotherapy centre at a government hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, remains non-operational due to a shortage of staff and medicines. The 10-bed facility, intended to serve cancer patients, was inaugurated in February at the civic hospital. However, operations are stalled due to the lack of trained personnel and essential medicines.

According to an official, a physician, two nurses, a counsellor, and a multipurpose worker are required to run the centre, but only two nurses have been deployed so far. Budgetary guidelines are still awaited, which is adding to the delays.

Dr. Jitendra Dongre, Acting Civil Surgeon, explained that efforts are underway to address staffing issues. The necessary staff will receive training, and the procurement of medicines is also being expedited.

The centre's non-operational status has raised concerns among local residents and health advocates. Cancer patients in the region are being referred to other facilities, which can be a significant burden for those who cannot travel long distances.

Efforts to secure the required staff and budgetary guidelines are ongoing. The government is committed to ensuring that the chemotherapy centre becomes fully operational as soon as possible to serve the needs of cancer patients in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Despite the challenges, there is a sense of urgency and optimism. Local health officials are working diligently to resolve the issues and bring the centre to full capacity. The community remains hopeful that the centre will soon be providing the vital care that cancer patients need.