How many patients does the oncology department at PGIMER see annually?

The department sees around 60,000 patients visiting the outpatient department annually, with a majority suffering from blood cancer.

What are the plans for expanding cancer care at PGIMER?

Expansion plans for cancer care at PGIMER include the development of a proposed advanced cancer centre at the Sarangpur satellite campus.

Home / Health / Cancer Care Crisis: PGIMER Staffing Shortage Threatens Patients

Cancer Care Crisis: PGIMER Staffing Shortage Threatens Patients

7 Feb

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Summary

PGIMER's oncology department faces critical staff and infrastructure shortages.
Annual OPD sees 60,000 patients, overwhelming current capacity.
Bone marrow transplant and ICU units critically understaffed.
Expansion plans focus on a proposed advanced cancer center.

Cancer Care Crisis: PGIMER Staffing Shortage Threatens Patients

The Department of Clinical Haematology and Medical Oncology at PGIMER is facing an acute crisis due to insufficient staff and infrastructure. This super specialty department, carved out from internal medicine in 2022, manages a substantial patient load, with around 60,000 outpatient visits annually, predominantly for blood cancer cases. The current facilities are struggling to cope with this influx, leading to staff working extended hours.

The department requires significant augmentation, particularly in nursing officers and resident doctors. Critical areas like the bone marrow transplant unit and the intensive care unit are short of essential personnel. Hospital administration is providing ad-hoc support, but a permanent staffing solution is imperative.