Bhubaneswar, GTNS | September 09, 2026: Odisha is set to strengthen its cancer treatment network by bringing chemotherapy services closer to patients across the state. The government has announced plans to make day-care chemotherapy available at 32 district headquarters hospitals, marking a major move towards decentralising cancer care.
The initiative is expected to reduce the need for patients from different parts of Odisha to travel frequently to major cities for chemotherapy. By providing treatment facilities at the district level, authorities aim to make continuing cancer care more accessible and convenient for patients and their families.
Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the state is also preparing to introduce dedicated Cancer Care Vans. The mobile units are expected to extend cancer-related healthcare services beyond conventional hospital settings and help take essential support closer to communities.
The proposed mobile cancer-care initiative could be particularly important for people living in remote and underserved areas. Bringing healthcare services closer to such populations can help improve access and encourage timely consultation and follow-up.
The government has also highlighted free treatment facilities at the Acharya Harihar Cancer Centre, providing further support to cancer patients requiring specialised care. The centre remains an important part of Odisha’s cancer-treatment infrastructure.
Cancer treatment often involves multiple rounds of therapy and regular medical monitoring. The planned day-care model at district hospitals could therefore help patients continue their treatment closer to home while reducing travel-related difficulties and associated expenses.
The expansion of district-level chemotherapy services, along with mobile cancer-care facilities and specialised treatment support, reflects a broader effort to build a more accessible cancer-care system in Odisha.
With the proposed measures, the state government is seeking to bring cancer treatment within easier reach of patients and strengthen healthcare delivery across both urban and rural areas.
GTNS | Odisha
September 09, 2026