Mon May 19 12:51:33 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) in Tiruchi, India, is set to install a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan within three months as part of its efforts to develop a full-fledged oncology block. This initiative, approved by the Directorate of Medical Education and Tamil Nadu Medical Service Corporation, aims to provide better cancer care to patients who currently face challenges accessing radiotherapy and chemotherapy elsewhere. The hospital is seeking ₹140 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) and plans to recruit staff from other institutions. MGMGH already handles a significant number of cancer patients monthly and conducts various surgeries. The development aligns with the recent launch of free cancer screening camps in Tiruchi and aims to provide affordable access to crucial tests. Additionally, the hospital is extending MRI scan working hours to expedite results.

**News Article:**

**Tiruchi Hospital to Install PET Scan, Bolstering Cancer Care Access**

**TIRUCHI, INDIA – May 19, 2025** – The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) in Tiruchi is poised to significantly improve cancer care access for its patients with the upcoming installation of a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan. Hospital authorities announced the approval for the initiative, which is part of a larger plan to establish a comprehensive oncology block.

“We have received the green light to begin groundwork for the PET scan centre,” said a senior hospital official. “This is a crucial step in developing a full-fledged oncology unit that will more effectively serve our patients.”

The project, estimated to cost ₹140 crore, is seeking funding under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK). Staffing for the PET scan centre, including medical and radiation oncologists, will be sourced from other institutions. Civil works are planned to commence within weeks, ensuring adequate space and radiation safety measures.

Currently, MGMGH sees approximately 1,500 in-patients monthly, conducting 25-30 major and 40-50 minor surgeries. Last year, 404 cancer surgeries were performed, and 326 patients received radiotherapy. The new oncology block aims to alleviate the burden on patients who are currently referred to other centers for radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

“Patients needing these treatments are already vulnerable to infection, and the travel adds financial strain as their families lose income,” the official explained. “Developing our own full-fledged oncology block is imperative.”

The initiative coincides with the launch of free cancer screening camps for individuals aged 18 and above, focusing on breast, cervical, and oral cancer. This aims to raise awareness and facilitate early detection.

“These camps are creating momentum in improving cancer care,” the official stated. “While PET scans are available through insurance schemes in private centers, many prefer public healthcare for such critical tests.”

Furthermore, MGMGH is extending the working hours of its Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan center to ensure results are available within three days. The proposed location for the oncology block is behind the ESI Hospital. The initiative marks a significant step towards equitable access to cancer care in the region.

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