Govt Plans Five More Nuclear Medicine Institutes to Expand Access to Cancer Care
The government has proposed five new nuclear medicine institutes to bring specialised diagnostic and treatment services closer to patients outside Dhaka.
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In a Nutshell
- The proposed institutes will be established at medical college hospitals in Sunamganj, Tangail, Noakhali, Patuakhali and Kishoreganj.
- The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission will implement the project entirely with government funding, subject to approval.
- Planned equipment includes PET-CT and SPECT-CT scanners, which support the diagnosis and assessment of cancer and other complex diseases. The institutes will also provide services for thyroid, kidney, liver and heart conditions.
- The project covers construction, equipment, recruitment and staff training. It is intended to reduce dependence on Dhaka-based services, rather than establish five comprehensive cancer hospitals offering every form of cancer treatment.
Context
The proposal builds on Bangladesh’s existing nuclear medicine network and the government’s effort to decentralise specialised healthcare. Following a Planning Commission review in May, the proposal was revised to address questions about equipment, procurement and continued operation after construction.
Why It Matters
Cancer care is often expensive and requires patients to travel to Dhaka frequently for checkups and medication. Government nuclear medicine institutes offer subsidised services, making specialised care more affordable and accessible.
What We Think
The government’s plan to expand these facilities requires significant investment, but public awareness of available government services is equally important to ensure these efforts reach those who need them. Ensuring accountability after the facilities are built is also essential to deliver the expected results.