Upfront

HCG to Expand Network to 40 Centres

HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited (HCG), having a network of 17 oncology centers across India, is looking at various options to expand its network to 40 centres within the next three years. On its radar are greenfield projects/merger and acquisition/franchisee models that would enable it to penetrate into tier II and tier III towns. It has earmarked Rs 400 crore for its expansion plans, including Rs 50 crore overseas investments.

The oncology major is talking to various State Governments and also non-Government organisations to make cancer treatment accessible to all segments of the society. It also launched of 'Sarva Cancer Chikitsa Yojana' and a CyberKinfe centre. The initiatives were declared in the presence of former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Chief Minister of Karnataka— BS Yeddyurappa. Hailing the initiatives of HCG, Dr Kalam observed, "It is heartening to note that HCG has embarked on a mission that would help the masses to fight the burgeoning problem of cancer. Given the high incidence of cancer, and the new threat it poses, we have a humongous task and the need of the hour is a PPP model."

Speaking about CyberKnife, Dr Kalam said, "I understand this equipment offers patients a new hope and this technology is a big step forward in conquering the disease." Presiding over CyberKnife Centre inauguration, BS Yeddyurappa, said, "It's laudable that HCG has mooted the 'Sarva Cancer Chikitsa Yojana' and the PPP model to wage war against cancer."

Outlining HCG's strategy, Dr Ajai Kumar, Chairman, HCG, said, "We believe that an integrated approach, starting with early as well as proper diagnosis; staging; appropriate treatment leveraging the best technology; strategic alliances for cancer drug /vaccine development and basic /stem cell / translational research, would pave way for managing cancer in a personalised way for a better outcome and achieving our goal of 'living with cancer' a reality."

EH News Bureau