10 Best Cancer Hospitals In Assam

Cancer, a word that carries a profound weight in our lives, is a formidable adversary. In the northeastern state of Assam, where lush tea gardens and vibrant cultures flourish, another kind of resilience is demonstrated daily – the battle against cancer. The state, known for its picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality, has also made significant strides in healthcare, particularly in the fight against cancer. In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore the best cancer hospitals in Assam, where cutting-edge technology converges with compassion to offer hope, healing, and a new lease on life.

Assam, nestled in the lap of nature, has not remained untouched by the global cancer epidemic. The rise in cancer cases in the state has prompted the development of advanced healthcare infrastructure dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients in their fight against this formidable disease. 

One of the hallmarks of the best cancer hospitals in Assam is their multidisciplinary approach. These institutions bring together a formidable team of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff, all working in harmony to create comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. The synergy between medical experts ensures that patients receive the best treatment and the emotional and psychological support crucial in the battle against cancer.

Moreover, these cancer hospitals in Assam invest heavily in state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure. These facilities spare no effort in their pursuit of excellence, utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, advanced radiation therapy, and the latest surgical techniques. Their commitment to staying abreast of medical advancements ensures patients access to the most innovative and effective treatments.

But it’s not just about advanced technology; it’s about the human touch. The best cancer hospitals in Assam prioritize compassionate care. They know that a cancer diagnosis can be a daunting experience, and they stand by their patients every step of the way. Support services, including counseling, palliative care, and survivorship programs, are integral parts of these institutions’ offerings.

In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into the profiles of these pioneering healthcare facilities, shedding light on their unique strengths, specializations, and contributions to the battle against cancer in Assam. Each hospital has its own story to tell, but they share a common mission: to transform the grim diagnosis of cancer into a journey of hope, healing, and resilience. Join us as we look at the best cancer hospitals in Assam, where science and compassion combine to write stories of triumph over adversity.

List Of 10 Best Cancer Hospitals In Assam

Assam has emerged as a remarkable destination for cancer treatment in India, and there are several compelling reasons why it stands out as a top choice for patients seeking care. From state-of-the-art facilities to a holistic approach to treatment and research, Assam offers a unique blend of advantages that make it a standout destination for cancer patients.

First and foremost, Assam boasts world-class cancer treatment facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology. Modern cancer treatment requires the latest medical equipment and infrastructure, and Assam has made significant investments. These facilities are on par with some of the best in the world, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care.

Furthermore, Assam’s medical professionals are renowned for their expertise in oncology. Highly trained and experienced oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff collaborate to provide comprehensive cancer care. Their commitment to patient well-being and dedication to staying updated with the latest advancements in cancer treatment contribute significantly to Assam’s reputation as a premier destination for cancer care.

Another standout feature of Assam’s approach to cancer treatment is its emphasis on holistic care. Cancer treatment is not just about addressing the disease but also the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of a patient’s life. Assam’s healthcare institutions recognize this and offer support services like counseling, nutritional guidance, and palliative care to make sure that patients receive complete care addressing all their needs.

The cost of cancer treatment in Assam is also relatively affordable compared to some of the more prominent medical hubs in India. This affordability ensures that patients from various economic backgrounds have access to high-quality cancer care without the burden of excessive medical bills.

In addition to providing excellent patient care, Assam is actively involved in cancer research. The state supports numerous research initiatives to find better treatments, early detection methods, and even prevention strategies. This commitment to research benefits the local population and contributes to the global fight against cancer.

Assam has emerged as a standout destination for cancer treatment in India due to its state-of-the-art facilities, expert medical professionals, holistic approach to care, serene environment, affordability, and commitment to advancing cancer research. These factors collectively make Assam an excellent choice for individuals seeking the best possible care and support in their battle against cancer.

Now, we will look at the 10 best cancer hospitals in Assam:

1) State Cancer Institute, GMC

The State Cancer Institute (SCI) is a premier cancer care hospital and research center in Guwahati, Assam. It was established in 2010 as a part of the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) to provide comprehensive and quality cancer treatment to the people of the northeastern region of India. The SCI offers various services such as radiation oncology, surgical oncology, medical oncology, pain and palliative care, preventive and public awareness, endoscopy, laboratory medicine, nutritional advice, physiotherapy, yoga and music therapy, speech therapy, and medical cyclotron.

Some of the notable achievements of the SCI are:

– It is the first cancer hospital in the northeast to have a medical cyclotron facility for producing radioisotopes for PET-CT scans and radiotherapy.

– It has successfully conducted several academic projects, CME programs, publications, workshops, and seminars on various aspects of cancer care.

– It has collaborated with the Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF), a joint initiative of the Tata Trusts and the Government of Assam, to create a three-level cancer grid in the state and upgrade the existing infrastructure and facilities.

– It has participated in various cancer screening and awareness programs in collaboration with other organizations, such as the Cachar Cancer Care Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC), headed by Magsaysay award-winning oncologist Dr R Ravi Kannan.

– It has received recognition and appreciation from various national and international agencies for its excellence in cancer care delivery.

2) North East Cancer Hospital And Research Institute

NECHRI is a private cancer hospital that offers a range of therapeutic and diagnostic services for different types of cancer. NECHRI is located at Amrigog Hills of Jorabat, GS Road, Guwahati, and is easily accessible from the city. NECHRI has a team of qualified and experienced doctors and specialists who can handle complex medical cases with care and compassion. NECHRI also has modern and advanced healthcare facilities and equipment to provide best-in-class clinical outcomes and patient experiences.

NECHRI was established in 2008 with the vision of offering quality cancer care & treatment to the people of North East India. NECHRI is the first comprehensive cancer hospital in the region and has been certified by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers. The Government of India has also recognized NECHRI as a Regional Cancer Centre under the National Cancer Control Programme. NECHRI has been a pioneer in introducing cutting-edge medical technology in the region, such as PET-CT scans, linear accelerators, brachytherapy, digital mammography, etc. NECHRI has also been involved in various research activities and collaborations with national and international institutions.

3) Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre

Cachar Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (CCHRC) in Silchar is a non-profit organization that offers comprehensive cancer care to the underprivileged people of Assam and neighboring states. Here are some of the achievements and features of this hospital that make it stand out:

– The hospital was established in 1992 by a group of philanthropists who wanted to provide quality cancer care to the poor and marginalized sections of society.

– The hospital is led by Dr. R. Ravi Kannan, a surgical oncologist and a Padma Shri awardee, who left his prestigious position at the Cancer Institute, Adyar, Chennai, to work in this rural region. He became the director of the CCHRC in 2007.

– Under Dr. Kannan’s leadership, the hospital has grown from having limited facilities to a full-fledged comprehensive cancer hospital and research center with 28 departments covering oncology, pathology, radiology, microbiology, epidemiology, tumor registry, and palliative care.

– The hospital has introduced pro-poor initiatives such as free treatment, food, and lodging, ad hoc employment for caregivers, and a homecare programme. The hospital also provides free or subsidized cancer care treatment to an average of 5,000 new patients annually, catering to approximately 20,000 poor patients for treatments and follow-ups.

– The hospital has achieved the remarkable feat of increasing the patient compliance rate in treatment from 28% to 70% by traveling long distances to train family members in pain management and palliative care and providing free medicines.

4) Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute

Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI) is a cancer care hospital and research center in Guwahati, Assam, India. It was established in 1986 by a voluntary organization called ‘Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Society Trust’ in memory of Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah, a great physician, freedom fighter, and philanthropist of Assam. BBCI is a grants-in-aid institute of the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, and a Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai unit. It is also a Regional Cancer Centre recognized by the Government of India.

BBCI has a team of qualified and experienced faculty members and staff dedicated to providing quality education and patient care. BBCI has state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research. It has laboratory facilities, radiological & nuclear scan equipment, a blood bank, a pharmacy, a palliative care unit, a pain clinic, a telemedicine center, and a library. 

It also has a bed strength of 230, with 50% reserved for poor patients. BBCI conducts various research projects in collaboration with national and international agencies such as ICMR, DBT, DST, BARC, NCI-USA, WHO, etc. It also organizes awareness programmes, screening camps, and outreach activities for cancer prevention and control.

5) Swagat Super Speciality Hospital and Surgical Institute

Swagat Super Speciality Hospital and Surgical Institute is the first surgical super specialty hospital in North East India, and it has been providing advanced surgical and emergency care to the people in this region since 2007. 

The hospital’s oncology department offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, staging, treatment, and follow-up. The department has expertise in performing various types of cancer surgeries, such as breast cancer surgery, head and neck cancer surgery, colorectal cancer surgery, gynecological cancer surgery, thoracic cancer surgery, and more. The department also offers minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery for selected cases, which reduces blood loss, pain, and recovery time. The department works in collaboration with other departments, such as radiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, and medical oncology, to provide multidisciplinary care to patients.

The hospital’s founder and director, Prof. Dr. Subhash Khanna, is a renowned laparoscopic surgeon with experience in nearly twenty thousand endo-laparoscopic procedures. He has been instrumental in introducing these innovative techniques in Assam and the North East region. He has published more than 125 papers & presentations in national and global journals and conferences.

6) Dibrugarh Cancer Centre

The Dibrugarh Cancer Centre is located in Dibrugarh, Assam, and it has been developed by the Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF), a joint initiative of the state government and Tata Trusts.   The center was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 April 2022.  The center features comprehensive radiation, surgical and chemotherapy, and various diagnostic facilities. 

ACCF aims to provide each cancer patient with standardized, affordable, humane care closer to home.  ACCF was established in 2017, and it helps in developing 17 medical facilities, of which seven were inaugurated by the prime minister during his visit on 28-29 April 2022.  ACCF is committed to benefit 50% of cancer patients in Assam. 

ACCF collaborates with the National Health Mission (NHM) for screening & awareness of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). ACCF also organized the first Northeast Oncology Summit (NEOS 2023) at Tezpur Cancer Centre, where cancer care experts shared their insights and best practices. 

7) Jorhat Cancer Centre ACCF

Jorhat Cancer Centre is one of the seven state-of-the-art cancer hospitals inaugurated by the Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF) in partnership with the Government of Assam and the Tata Trusts. The center is located adjacent to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH) and has a capacity of 45 beds. The center offers advanced technology and experienced oncologists to provide quality cancer care to patients.

The center provides various facilities such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, CT scans, MRI, X-rays, a blood storage unit, mammography, and laboratory services. The center also has a centralized helpdesk that connects it to the network of ACCF units in real time to deliver virtual care through effective and efficient communication. Patients can book appointments and seek cancer-related queries from the comfort of their homes through the helpdesk.

The center caters to the needs of cancer patients in Jorhat, its neighboring districts, and adjacent states. Patients from neighboring countries can also avail of the services. The center is part of South Asia’s largest cancer care network, which aims to create a first-of-its-kind, three-level cancer grid in Assam. The distributed care model was conceptualized by the Trusts and the Government of Assam to create patient-centric cancer institutions to deliver standardized & affordable care closer to patients’ homes.

8) JJ Memorial Hospital & Research Centre

JJ Memorial Hospital & Research Centre in Dibrugarh is one of the few cancer hospitals in Assam that offers a range of services and facilities for cancer patients, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, palliative care, counseling, and more. The hospital also has a dedicated research wing that conducts clinical trials and studies on various aspects of cancer treatment and prevention.

The JJ Memorial Hospital & Research Centre was established in 1998 by Dr. J.J. Choudhury, a renowned oncologist and philanthropist. The hospital aims to provide the finest and most affordable cancer care to the people of Assam & the neighboring states. The cancer hospital has a capacity of 100 beds & is equipped with modern technology and infrastructure. The hospital has a team of qualified and experienced doctors, nurses, technicians, and support staff who work round the clock to ensure the best possible patient care.

 9) Hayat Superspeciality Hospital

Hayat Superspeciality Hospital is one of the finest cancer hospitals in Assam, for cancer treatment. It has a dedicated oncology and onco surgery department that provides advanced and quality healthcare to cancer patients. The hospital has state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, such as linear accelerator, PET-CT scan, brachytherapy, and cyberknife, that enable accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and faster recovery.

The hospital has achieved many milestones in cancer care, such as performing the first cyberknife surgery in northeast India, the first robotic surgery for prostate cancer in Assam, the first HIPEC surgery for ovarian cancer in Assam, and the first bone marrow transplant in northeast India. The hospital has also been accredited by the NABH & the (NABL)- National Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories, the highest quality standards in India. 

10) Apollo Hospitals

Apollo Hospitals in Guwahati is located at Lotus Tower, International Hospitals, Gs Road, Christian Basti, Kamrup, Assam 781005. Apollo Hospitals in Guwahati has achieved many milestones in cancer care. Some of them are:

– It performed the first-ever Transfemoral Pulmonary Valve Implantation using an Indian-made valve, MYVAL, on a patient with lung cancer.

– It performed the first simultaneous Liver-Intestine-Pancreas transplant in India on a patient with pancreatic cancer.

– It performed the first Total Marrow Irradiation Procedure on a patient from Oman with leukemia at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai.

– It performed the first donor-incompatible kidney transplant on a patient with kidney cancer using a technique of Column adsorption of blood group antibodies.

– It performed the largest series of aortic valve replacement with stentless heart valve bioprosthesis on patients with heart valve cancer.

Conclusion

The quest for the best cancer care in Assam is not just about finding a top-tier hospital but also about recognizing the importance of a holistic approach to treatment. While we might not have provided a list of hospitals here, we’ve emphasized the key factors that should guide your decision.

First and foremost, prioritize a hospital that offers a comprehensive range of cancer treatments under one roof. This can significantly reduce the burden of travel and ensure continuity of care. Equally important is the availability of a skilled and compassionate medical team, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, who can provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

Furthermore, a hospital’s investment in state-of-the-art technology and research capabilities is crucial. Cutting-edge equipment and ongoing clinical trials can expand treatment options and improve outcomes. Don’t overlook the significance of support services like psychological counseling, nutritional guidance, and palliative care. Cancer treatment can be emotionally & physically taxing, and these services can significantly enhance your overall well-being during your journey.

Financial considerations also play a significant role. Ensure the hospital you choose accepts your insurance or offers affordable payment plans. No one should have to forgo necessary treatment due to financial constraints. Lastly, take into account the hospital’s accessibility and location. A convenient location can reduce the stress of commuting, making it easier for both patients and their families.

In summary, the best cancer hospital in Assam isn’t just about a single name or location; it’s about finding a hospital that aligns with your specific needs, values, and circumstances. Take the time to research, ask for recommendations, & connect with healthcare professionals to make an informed decision that will help you or your loved one on the path to recovery. Remember, cancer care is a journey, and finding the right hospital is a critical step towards a healthier future.

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It enables individuals to raise funds from a global community of donors who empathize with their situation, thereby reducing the financial stress associated with cancer treatment. With funds raised, patients can access the best available medical treatments and facilities, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.