Pune is preparing for a major boost in cancer care as a dedicated cancer hospital linked to BJ Medical College moves closer to reality. The upcoming centre aims to serve as a leading hub for treatment, education and research, filling a long standing gap in the city’s healthcare infrastructure. State authorities have approved the project as part of a larger plan to expand cancer services across Maharashtra.
For years, BJ Medical College did not have a separate oncology department, despite rising cancer cases in the region. The new hospital intends to change that by offering specialised cancer treatment under one roof. Officials confirmed that the hospital will function as an L2 centre under the state’s three level cancer care model. L1 centres will operate as apex referral institutions. L2 centres like the upcoming Pune hospital will deliver comprehensive care through government medical colleges. L3 centres will focus on diagnosing cancer and providing day care services.
The cancer hospital in Pune is expected to begin operations as an L2 facility. However, authorities noted that it may be upgraded to L1 in the future based on patient volume, clinical needs and academic requirements.
Along with clinical services, the upcoming hospital will strengthen medical education in oncology. The government has approved postgraduate and super specialty courses in cancer care for BJ Medical College. These include MD, MS, DM, MCh and DNB programs along with fellowship opportunities. This expansion will help produce more trained oncologists at a time when demand for cancer specialists continues to grow.
Officials believe the institution will evolve into an important centre for research in western India. With better infrastructure, dedicated departments and teaching programs, the hospital will support advanced studies and clinical projects that can improve future cancer treatment.
This project is one of 18 new cancer hospitals being set up across Maharashtra. The government has outlined a structured three tier system to bring care closer to communities. Each institution will be developed according to local needs and patient load. The new hospitals and centres will be managed by the Mahacare Foundation. This body was recently created under the leadership of the state’s chief minister to oversee staffing, partnerships and daily administration.
Cities with government medical colleges will host L2 centres similar to the one planned in Pune. Smaller regions will receive L3 facilities that offer diagnostics and day care services. The aim is to reduce travel burdens on patients and make cancer care more accessible.
(Rh/ARC/MSM)
