Treatment of patients at Delhi State Cancer Institute (DSCI) here has allegedly been hit after a machine used for planning of radiation therapy was removed three months ago, after it outlived its utility, and new equipment is yet to be installed.
According to a senior doctor, the machine--simulator--was discarded after it outlived its utility.
"We did not want to put at risk the lives of patients by continuing to use the old and outdated machine. Its repair is also not feasible so we are in the process of purchasing a new machine as soon as possible," the doctor added.
He though claimed that no patient was face inconvenience for want of the machine as the institute was using CT scan facility instead for radiation therapy.
However, Ashok Agarwal, a lawyer-actvist who works for economically weaker section, said he has come across several complaints from patients about delay in treatment due to the unavailability of the machine.
"I have written to Delhi government to expedite purchase of new equipment. Cancer treatment is costly and the poor can't afford services of private hospitals," Agarwal said.
