The Odisha government has announced the inclusion of 121 new cancer treatment packages under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, significantly expanding access to free treatment for eligible beneficiaries.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the newly approved packages aim to strengthen cancer treatment facilities and reduce the financial burden on patients and their families. The expanded coverage includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and complex cancer surgeries, enabling beneficiaries to receive advanced care without incurring high out‑of‑pocket expenses.
Mahaling emphasised that the state government will bear the cost of these additional packages, ensuring that financial constraints do not force patients to discontinue treatment. “This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that no economically disadvantaged patient is deprived of timely and quality healthcare,” he said.
Under the expanded coverage, Ayushman Bharat card holders will be able to avail the new cancer treatment packages at government hospitals and empanelled private institutions across Odisha.
Officials said the move will provide relief to thousands of families struggling with the high cost of cancer treatment and strengthen Odisha’s public healthcare system by improving access to comprehensive oncology services.
The expansion is expected to play a key role in advancing the state’s goal of affordable and equitable healthcare for all.
