Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment: Expanding Day Care Cancer Centres Across India

India is expanding district-level chemotherapy services with over 450 functional Day Care Cancer Centres. This initiative, detailed in the 2025-26 budget, aims to decentralize cancer treatment, making it accessible and affordable for patients by reducing travel burdens and ensuring timely care close to homes.

In a significant health reform, India's government has operationalized more than 450 Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) nationwide, facilitating easier access to chemotherapy. This expansion is part of an initiative, unveiled in the Union Budget 2025-26, to establish district-level cancer care facilities and alleviate the strain on tertiary hospitals.

Health Ministry sources emphasize the necessity of decentralizing routine cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy, to reduce the travel and financial burdens for patients, largely in rural areas. With DCCCs, patients receive timely treatment closer to home, cutting down on indirect costs such as travel and accommodation.

The initiative involves rigorous training for healthcare staff and ensures the provision of free chemotherapy drugs, markedly decreasing patient expenses. This systemic approach strengthens clinical competence at the district level, offering a model for future healthcare improvements in India.

(With inputs from agencies.)