Panaji: To strengthen early detection and intervention for lung cancer in Goa, the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), extended the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AstraZeneca and Qure.ai for another two years.
“This extension marks another two years of collaboration under the Early Lung Cancer Detection Programme, aimed at transforming public health outcomes using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in radiology,” DHS said.
Under the programme launched in June 2024, over 33,800 chest X-rays have been done across 17 DHS centres using Qure.ai’s advanced AI technology, leading to the identification of 3,144 nodules, of which 143 were classified as high-risk.
“This systematic and tech-enabled approach has already led to the confirmation of one lung cancer case through a closed-loop pathway involving chest physician review, CT scan confirmation, and biopsy,” DHS said.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said, “Our vision has always been to bring cutting-edge solutions to Goa’s public health system. With the successful deployment of AI-powered tools for early lung cancer detection, we are witnessing a real impact in terms of faster diagnosis and more effective referrals. Extending our partnership with AstraZeneca and Qure.ai is a reaffirmation of our commitment to innovative and preventive healthcare.”
One of the key highlights of the programme has been the deployment of Nurse Navigators who provide consistent support and guidance to high-risk patients, ensuring end-to-end follow-up from screening to diagnosis. The programme has also effectively established a strong referral mechanism, integrating physicians, specialists, and diagnostic facilities for timely clinical intervention.
Health dept seeks cabinet nod to buy cancer drugs at lesser rates
Panaji: Announcing his plans to introduce innovative drug procurement reform in Goa, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane on Friday said that the Health Department has moved a proposal for confidential pricing to ensure procurement of life-saving drugs for cancer at affordable prices. “If we implement confidential pricing, there are chances that
we would be able to procure the life-saving drugs for cancer on a large scale at lesser prices. Around 4-5 multi-national companies have come on board so we will be able to procure from those companies,” he said.
