GMCH Chandigarh Inaugurates Cobalt Therapy Unit, Ayushman Bharat Kiosk, and Evidence-Based Millet Clinic

GMCH Chandigarh Inaugurates Cobalt Therapy Unit, Ayushman Bharat Kiosk, and Evidence-Based Millet Clinic

The Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Chandigarh, inaugurated three state-of-the-art healthcare facilities on November 6, 2023, in a significant milestone for the institution. The three facilities, inaugurated by Sh. Banwarilal Purohit, Governor Punjab & Administrator UT Chandigarh, are:

• Cobalt Therapy Unit: A new Cobalt Therapy Unit has been established in GMCH, Chandigarh at Level-I, Block-D to provide radiation therapy to cancer patients. It employs gamma rays emitted from a radioactive isotope, cobalt-60, to target and destroy cancer cells. Cobalt therapy unit was historically widely used before modern linear accelerators became more prevalent. It is cost-effective and efficient for cancer treatment, particularly in areas with limited resources or infrastructure for advanced radiation therapy.
• Ayushman Bharat Kiosk: Under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, the Indian Government introduced Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) to provide comprehensive healthcare services. A new Ayushman Bharat Kiosk has been established in GMCH, Chandigarh at Level-I, Block-B. It will serve as information hubs offering citizens access to healthcare services, facilitating appointments, providing information on health insurance, government health schemes, and acting as a resource for various health-related queries.
• Evidence-Based Millet Clinic: An Evidence-Based Millet Clinic is being started at GMCH, Chandigarh at Level-I, Block-B. It is a healthcare initiative centered around promoting the consumption and benefits of millets. Millets are a group of highly nutritious grains that have gained attention for their health benefits, including being gluten-free, rich in nutrients, and having a low glycemic index. It is designed to provide evidence-based information, consultations, and services related to incorporating millets into diets for improved health, addressing conditions like diabetes, obesity, and malnutrition. It emphasizes evidence-backed information to guide individuals on the advantages of incorporating millets into their dietary habits.

  The introduction of these facilities represents a significant step toward offering comprehensive healthcare services to the citizens of Chandigarh and beyond. It symbolizes a commitment to enhancing healthcare access, research, and specialized treatment modalities at GMCH, Chandigarh.

  The Director-Principal, GMCH, extended her heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Governor for gracing the occasion and encouraging the endeavors to advance healthcare in the region.

  The inaugural function of the Cobalt Therapy Unit, Ayushman Bharat Kiosk, and Evidence-Based Millet Clinic at GMCH Chandigarh was graced by:

  • Shri Nitin Kumar Yadav, Adviser to the Administrator
  • Shri Ajay Chagti, Secretary Medical Education & Research
  • Dr. Jasbinder Kaur, Director-Principal GMCH-32
  • All HODs and faculty of GMCH-32
  • Other officials of Chandigarh Administration