Mammography machine yet to become functional at AHRCC

CUTTACK: A mammography machine, donated by noted writer Susmita Bagchi to Acharya Harihar Regional Cancer Centre (AHRCC), here is yet to become functional.

The machine, which is used to detect and diagnose breast cancer, is lying idle at the State’s only Government-run cancer centre, leading to discontentment among patients. In the absence of diagnostic facility, patients with symptoms of breast cancer, are being referred to the Radiology department of SCB Medical College and Hospital where they have to wait in long queues. To add to their woes, the medical college and hospital has only one Mammography machine. In order to avoid delays, such patients are forced to visit private diagnostic centres that charge a premium for the test.

A relative of a patient said visiting private diagnostic centres is a costly affair and lack of screening facility at AHRCC leads to delay in treatment of the patients. The machine donated by Bagchi to the hospital costs around `1.73 crore. Sources said the machine is yet to become functional as AHRCC authorities have not decided the date of its inauguration.

AHRCC Director Dr Lalatendu Sarangi said decision has not been taken on making the machine functional. The machine was received by the hospital 15 days ago and its installation is being done. “It will be made operational soon after inauguration,” he said.