Vertex Oncology Dr Giri

  What Is the Ayushman Health Card (in Karnataka) In Karnataka, the central Ayushman Bharat scheme is implemented through a state-specific program called Ayushman Bharat – Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) .  Under this, eligible individuals receive a health card (sometimes referred to as the “Ayushman card” or “AB-ArK card”), which entitles them to cashless hospitalization and treatment in empanelled hospitals. This includes a wide range of treatments — the scheme supports around 1,650 procedures , including serious illnesses like cancer.  Why It Matters for Cancer Patients in Karnataka Coverage Limits : Under AB-ArK, the insurance cover is up to ₹5 lakh per family per year . Cancer Care Included : Oncology procedures like chemotherapy, surgery, radiation are part of the approved treatments. In fact, oncology approvals under AB-ArK have risen significantly in recent years.  Chemotherapy Access : New day-care chemo units are being established in district hospitals u...

  Understanding the correct role of PET-CT in oncology to avoid unnecessary tests Positron Emission Tomography–Computed Tomography (PET-CT) has become one of the most valuable imaging tools in cancer care. It helps detect cancer spread, guides treatment, and monitors response. However, many patients today are advised PET scans even when they’re not truly required. Overuse of PET not only increases cost but can also mislead treatment decisions. Let’s clearly understand where PET-CT is essential and where it is NOT needed in oncology. ☑️ When PET-CT is Required in Cancer Care 1. Staging of Certain Cancers Before Treatment PET helps identify cancer spread and decide treatment intensity. It is essential for: Lung cancer Lymphomas (Hodgkin & Non-Hodgkin) Head & neck cancers (except early oral cancers) Esophageal cancer Melanoma Carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) 2. Detecting Recurrence or Residual Disease After treatment, PET-CT is helpful when: T...

  November is a key month for lung cancer awareness. By increasing understanding of the risk factors, encouraging early screening, and highlighting what common people can do, we can help reduce the burden of lung cancer in India. Below is a comprehensive blog-style article targeted at the general public, using solid data and actionable guidance. 1. The Scope of the Problem in India & Globally Globally, there were about 2.48 million new lung cancer cases in 2022 . World Cancer Research Fund +1 In India, the incidence of lung cancer is rising. For example, studies estimate the number of new cases in males will increase to approximately 81,219 by 2025 . PMC +2 Lippincott Journals +2 One study found lung cancer accounts for approximately 5.9% of all new cancer cases in India and about 8.1% of all cancer‐related deaths . ScienceDirect +1 The challenge: Many cases in India are diagnosed at advanced stages, when curative treatment is much harder. Indian Journal of Medical ...

💡 Introduction Cancer is a word that shakes every family. The moment doctors say “you might need a biopsy” or “this may be cancer,” fear takes over. In India, most patients go to government hospitals for treatment because of affordability and schemes like Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY , State schemes, and ESI. These are excellent systems that save thousands of lives every year. But here is the harsh truth : Many patients unknowingly lose valuable time by waiting for all tests to be completed before initiating paperwork for schemes or treatment approvals. Cancer does not wait. But patients often do — for scans, biopsies, reports, scheme approvals, doctor appointments, etc. This delay can push a cancer from an early, easily curable stage ― to an advanced stage where treatment becomes longer, costlier, and sometimes less effective. 🕒 Why Early Treatment Matters Cancer multiplies. Every week of delay matters. Research shows that delaying cancer treatment by even 4 weeks can reduce s...

  Quick summary (what helps most) The main routes to cashless cancer care in private hospitals in Karnataka are Ayushman Bharat – Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK / PM-JAY) administered by Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST) , and some state schemes/relief funds (Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, Vajpayee Arogyasri / Rajiv-type schemes). Large private hospitals are regularly empanelled under AB-ArK/PM-JAY and provide cancer packages (surgery, chemo, radiation, meds) on a cashless basis for eligible beneficiaries. National Health Authority +1 The main schemes you should know Ayushman Bharat – Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK / PM-JAY) Nationwide scheme (PM-JAY) delivered in Karnataka as Arogya Karnataka; covers many oncology packages (surgery, chemo, radiation, inpatient care) with portability to empanelled hospitals across India. Check package list for oncology procedures and reimbursement rates. National Health Authority +1 Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST) / Arogya Karnataka...