Mumbai Deploys 24 Cancer Navigators to Guide Patients Through Treatment

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to deploy 24 Cancer Patient Navigators across Mumbai’s 24 administrative wards. These professionals will support patients diagnosed through the city’s cancer screening programme, ensuring they receive timely treatment and care. The initiative comes under the Patient Navigation in Oncology Care Programme, a joint effort by Tata Memorial Centre and ECHO India. This programme trains navigators to guide patients through every stage, from diagnosis to follow-up care. Dr. Daksha Shah, Executive Health Officer at BMC, confirmed the deployment of these trained navigators.

Dr. Sudeep Gupta, Director of Tata Memorial Centre, stressed the need for new healthcare approaches due to India’s ageing population and increasing cancer cases. Dr. R.A. Badwe also highlighted the value of dedicated navigators, referencing a study of nearly 3,000 cancer patients. Dr. Shah added that navigators will provide personalised support, preventing patients from feeling lost or isolated during treatment. The navigators will assist with referrals, counselling, and follow-up care. Their role is part of a broader effort to improve cancer treatment access and promote healthier ageing. The programme aligns with the Cancer Care Bharat initiative’s goals to enhance oncology support nationwide.