Kolhapur Civil Hospital to launch Maharashtra's first bone marrow transplant unit

Kolhapur: Chhatrapati Pramila Raje Civil Hospital in Kolhapur is preparing to introduce a bone marrow transplant facility, marking a major expansion of specialised cancer care in the government health sector. 

The new facility, attached to Rajarshi Shahu Government Medical College, is expected to become operational next month. Once functional, it will be the first bone marrow transplant unit in a state-run civil hospital in Maharashtra, offering a critical treatment option to patients who currently depend largely on expensive private centres.

Dean Dr Sadanand Bhise said the unit is being developed to support patients with blood cancer and may later benefit those with thalassemia. Doctors said bone marrow, the soft tissue inside bones, produces red and white blood cells. In blood cancers, this function is disrupted, and many patients require transplant-based treatment, reports ET Healthworld. 

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The need for an affordable facility is significant as private hospitals often charge Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh for bone marrow transplant procedures. At CPR Hospital, government insurance schemes are expected to reduce the financial burden. Haematologist Dr Varun Bafna said Ayushman Bharat provides coverage of Rs 10 lakh for fully matched transplants and Rs 17 lakh for partially matched procedures. 

Hospital data indicate a growing burden of blood-related cancers, with nearly 10,000 patients across age groups in Kolhapur district. The hospital reportedly receives two to three new patients every day for evaluation and treatment.

Officials said CPR Hospital already has a foundation for such services through its haematology day-care unit, which manages thalassemia, haemophilia and sickle cell disease. The state government has also approved Rs 8.40 crore, mainly to support specialised medicines required for these conditions.

Doctors said early diagnosis remains essential in blood cancer management. Tests such as platelet count, haemoglobin level, and lymphoid evaluation can help identify suspected cases at an earlier stage. While transplant procedures carry medical risks, specialists said a successful bone marrow transplant can offer curative treatment for eligible patients.

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