Pune: The Lokmanya Integrative Palliative Care Unit, dedicated to providing specialized care for terminally ill cancer patients and their families, was inaugurated at the Lokmanya Medical Research Center in Chinchwad, Pune.
The ceremony was graced by chief guests Hari Vilas Kasat and Ramesh Kasat, along with key figures from the medical fraternity, including Dr. Vikram Ghole, Trustee of Lokmanya Medical Research Center, Dr. Vishal Kshirsagar, CEO, Srinivas Pattar, Director, and Dr. Bina Rajan, Joint Director. Also in attendance were Molly Andrews, Secretary, and Smita Ubale, Principal of Lokmanya Nursing College.
The dignitaries commended Lokmanya Medical Research Center for its four decades of dedicated service in areas such as cancer treatment, the Safelife Initiative, and health education. Speaking at the event, Dr. Vishal Kshirsagar elaborated on the Center’s advanced cancer care facilities.
Palliative care expert Dr. Prince Joy delivered a keynote address, highlighting the critical importance of palliative care in modern healthcare. Additionally, Dr. V.G. Vaidya provided insights into the misconceptions about palliative care and detailed the services the new unit will offer.
Expressing gratitude for establishing the unit in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Dr. V.G. Vaidya acknowledged the support of donors, including entrepreneur Shyam Kasat, who expressed satisfaction that his family’s contributions were utilized meaningfully. Volunteer Shridhar Lokhande emphasized the essential role of community involvement in palliative care initiatives.
The program, moderated by Dr. Bina Rajan, marks a significant step in enhancing access to palliative care in the region.