Chennai, Nov 4 (NationPress) In a pivotal move towards enhancing the cancer care framework in Tamil Nadu, the state government has approved the establishment of 59 new positions in tertiary care hospitals managed by the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DME). This announcement was made on Tuesday.

The initiative is supported by an administrative and financial allocation of Rs 16.08 crore, aimed at expanding oncology services and strengthening the workforce as part of the state’s Cancer Management Mission.

A Government Order from the Health and Family Welfare Department indicates that these new roles will be distributed among 16 government medical colleges to enhance cancer diagnosis and treatment capabilities.

The approved positions include professors, associate professors, and assistant professors in medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation oncology, ensuring that tertiary hospitals are equipped with sufficient faculty and expertise to handle complex cancer cases.

This decision follows Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu's announcement during the 2024–25 Budget Session, reflecting the state government's dedication to tackling the growing cancer burden.

Tamil Nadu has been experiencing a continual rise in cancer incidence, especially among younger adults, prompting the government to prioritize both preventive and therapeutic measures.

The 16 medical colleges that will benefit from this initiative include institutions in Chennai, Thanjavur, Tirunelveli, Salem, Thoothukudi, and Kanniyakumari, among others.

This initiative is part of a larger strategy to implement a four-tier tertiary cancer care model, which includes the State Apex Cancer Centre, Regional Cancer Centres, Tertiary Care Centres, and District Cancer Care Centres.

This framework aims to ensure early detection, timely treatment, and comprehensive rehabilitation, ultimately reducing both morbidity and mortality associated with cancer.

P. Senthilkumar, Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, emphasized that this measure aims to meet the growing demand for qualified oncology specialists across Tamil Nadu’s public health network.

He stated, "With the surge in cancer cases, particularly among younger demographics, these positions will facilitate quality treatment closer to communities and fortify our integrated cancer management approach."

Officials noted that the recruitment for these new positions will occur in phases, with priority assigned to regional medical colleges that manage high patient volumes, ensuring an equitable distribution of oncology services throughout the state.