Sun Jan 19 15:58:59 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Includes Bone Marrow Transplants in Free Healthcare Scheme

**Bengaluru, January 19, 2025** – The Karnataka state government has announced the inclusion of free bone marrow transplantation under its Ayushman Bharat-Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) healthcare scheme, a move welcomed by Bengaluru Rural MP and cardiologist Dr. C.N. Manjunath.

The procedure, which currently costs between ₹20-40 lakh in private hospitals and ₹10-12 lakh in public hospitals, will now be available at no cost to patients in empaneled hospitals. This will significantly benefit low-income patients suffering from bone cancer, thalassemia, aplastic anemia, and other hematological disorders.

Dr. Manjunath, who had previously written to the state government in October 2024 advocating for the inclusion of bone marrow transplants, highlighted the significant financial burden faced by patients. He noted that an estimated 75 to 100 patients in Karnataka require this procedure annually. He cited similar provisions in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as a model for Karnataka’s action.

Dr. Manjunath expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, and Principal Secretary of Health and Family Welfare Department Harsh Gupta for their support in implementing this crucial addition to the AB-ArK scheme.

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