Kerala CM launches zero-profit cancer drugs counter at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College
Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the first zero-profit cancer treatment medicine counter at Karunya Pharmacy on the Government Medical College (GMC) in Thiruvananthapuram. This initiative represents a major advancement in making essential cancer medications more accessible and affordable for those in need.
During the inauguration of the counter, Pinarayi Vijayan announced that the medicines would be sold at significantly reduced rates. The Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited (KMSCL) will operate the counter without making a profit, charging only a two per cent service fee. Discounts on medications will range from 26% to 96%, meaning a medicine that typically costs Rs 1.75 lakh in the market will be available for just Rs 11,892.
Titled Karunya Sparsham, the initiative will see these zero-profit medicine counters set up at selected Karunya Pharmacy outlets across all districts. According to the New Indian Express, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated, “This model program for the country aims to reduce the cancer treatment cost. The 250-odd branded oncology medicines sold at Karunya Pharmacy outlets will be covered under the programme”.
Karunya Pharmacies offers over 8,000 branded medicines at discounts ranging from 10% to 93%. The state operates 75 of these outlets, with seven of them functioning around the clock. The newly established counter is part of a larger effort to address the high costs associated with cancer treatment, which often place a heavy burden on patients and their families.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for vigilance against the spread of contagious, zoonotic, and lifestyle diseases, highlighting that cancer control is also crucial. Recent studies indicate that around nine lakh people over the age of 30 in Kerala are at risk of developing cancer, with breast cancer being a significant concern. Additionally, cervical cancer rates among women are rising. In response, the state has decided to implement a vaccination program to help prevent cervical cancer.
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The government has allocated Rs 2.5 crore for the establishment of cancer treatment centres in district hospitals. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan affirmed his administration's commitment to fulfilling its promises, noting that an annual progress report is published to track the achievements outlined in the election manifesto. He also highlighted the 100-Day program, which aims to enhance administrative efficiency and focus on critical areas. The new initiative, designed to provide essential cancer medications at no profit, is a significant step in easing the financial burden on patients and their families, marking a notable advancement in the region’s healthcare efforts.
As the initiative gains momentum, there is optimism that it will pave the way for the broader adoption of similar models across India, offering treatment and support to a greater number of patients nationwide.
