Maharashtra Cancer Care Policy Launched

Maharashtra Cancer Care Policy Summary

Policy Overview:

• Objective: Establish quality cancer treatment across Maharashtra.
• Foundation Formation: The Maharashtra Cancer Care, Research and Education Foundation (MAHACARE Foundation) will oversee cancer-related specialty treatment in 18 hospitals.

Background Data:

• The 2025 ICMR Report indicates an 11% increase in cancer patients in Maharashtra since 2020.
• The Union Budget 2023 proposed setting up cancer care centres in all district hospitals over the next three years.

Policy Features:

• Care Structure:
  • Three Tier System:
    • L-1: Tata Memorial Hospital (apex institution).
    • L-2: Various regional hospitals in cities like Nagpur, Mumbai, and Kolhapur.
    • L-3: Additional hospitals across Maharashtra, including those in Ambajogai, Nanded, and Yavatmal.
• Services Provided:
  • Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, physiotherapy, psychological support, research, palliative care, and health awareness.

Operational Framework:

• MAHACARE Foundation Goals:
  • To provide manpower and funding to L-2 and L-3 centres.
  • Establish a Command-and-Control Centre for coordination.
  • Engage NGOs for palliative care initiatives and increase awareness of healthy lifestyles to prevent diseases.

Funding:

• An initial fund of Rs 100 crore allocated to MAHACARE Foundation.
• 20% of fees from cancer hospitals under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana directed to the foundation.
• Additional funds to be raised through clinical trials, donations, grants, and CSR initiatives.

Administrative Structure:

• Leadership:
  • Chief Minister as Chairman.
  • Deputy Chief Ministers as Vice-Chairmen.
  • Ministers and state authorities as directors.
  • Appointment of a CEO with health services expertise.

Partnership and Implementation:

• Equipment and manpower for L-2 and L-3 centres will follow the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
• L-2 hospitals to offer fellowship programs for PG and super-speciality education in cancer.

Judicial and Constitutional Context:

• The policy illustrates state compliance with health provisions under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), reinforcing the state’s duty to promote public health as outlined in Article 47 of the Constitution of India.

Implications:

• This comprehensive cancer care initiative is expected to significantly enhance cancer treatment capabilities in Maharashtra, respond effectively to rising cancer cases, and align with national healthcare strategies announced by the central government.