PET scan centre to be opened at MGMGH super speciality block in Tiruchi
'We have got the approval from the Directorate of Medical Education and the Tamil Nadu Medical Service Corporation to lay the groundwork for the PET scan centre in the coming months. This is part of our effort to develop a full-fledged oncology block that will serve patients more effectively,' a senior MGMGH official told The Hindu on Saturday.
He said staff for the PET scan centre, including medical and radiation oncologists, would be deputed from other institutions.
Free cancer screening camps were launched in Tiruchi district's health centres last week, for people aged above 18. The camps will be testing for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and oral cancer with the aim of raising awareness about treatment and rehabilitation of patients.
'The camps have created a new momentum in improving cancer care. MGMGH will be aligning with the district health authorities in providing solutions after the screening. Though PET scans are available through Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme in private centres, people from economically weaker sections of society would prefer to reach out to a public healthcare facility for such crucial tests,' said the official. 'As part of our effort to address patient's requirements, we have increased the working hours of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan centre, so that results can be shared with the patient within three days, rather than 10,' he added.
A site behind the ESI Hospital is being considered for the proposed oncology block at MGMGH.
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