PANJIM: Goa will become the first State in the country to provide In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment facility free of cost from September 1 this year.
This facility will be operational in the super-specialty block of Goa Medical College (GMC), Bambolim, for childless couples.
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Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Health Minister Vishwajit Rane on Monday inaugurated the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)/In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Centre.
The inaguration marked a significant step forward in healthcare services for the people of Goa.
Speaking on the occasion, Sawant said that the newly inaugurated IVF Centre at GMC represents a symbol of hope, embodying the tireless efforts of the medical community to address the healthcare needs of the people of the State. The government’s commitment to bridge the healthcare gap and provide top-notch medical care has been underscored by this initiative; he said and announced the initiation of a groundbreaking breast cancer screening initiative, further reinforcing Goa’s commitment to healthcare excellence.
Rane said, “IVF is where science meets hope, creating one tiny heartbeat at a time. The launch of the IVF centre signifies a monumental milestone in Goa’s medical landscape, aiming to bring joy to countless families by offering IVF services free of charge commencing from September 1. This initiative solidifies GMC’s position as the first government hospital in the country to provide such comprehensive IVF services.”
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Rane said, “The women in Goa will no longer need to travel outside the State for IVF treatment. This step is initiated to bring the joy of parenthood to families, aligning with the government’s vision of holistic healthcare. 50 to 100 persons have already registered to avail benefits under this initiative.”
Dr Bandekar said that the government aims to use Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to procure equipment and strengthen operations of the initiative. The government will pay on an average Rs 5 to Rs 7 lakh for the IVF treatment.
Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Secretary (Health) Arun Kumar Mishra, IAS and gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Kedar Padte also praised the initiative of the government for spearheading this transformative endeavour.
GMC, Head of OBG Department Dr Pia Muriel Cardoso, Director of Health Services Dr Geeta Kakodkar, staff and others were also present. The programme was hosted by Dr Karla Carvalho and later GMC Superintendent Dr Rajesh Patil proposed a vote of thanks.
