Punjab makes cochlear implant surgeries free in GMCs

Chandigarh: The govt of Punjab has operationalised high-end cochlear implant surgeries free of cost across its tertiary care network.Following a successful procedure at Govt Medical College, Amritsar, the govt established a robust 4-node surgical framework to systematically eliminate childhood deafness. Cochlear implant surgeries are now fully operational at Govt Medical College & Hospital, Amritsar; Govt Medical College & Hospital, Patiala; Govt Medical College & Hospital, Faridkot; and Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Govt Medical College & Hospital, SAS Nagar. This statewide institutional network ensures that access to advanced hearing restoration is no longer geographically restricted.Cochlear implants are among the most expensive medical interventions available in modern healthcare. In the private sector, the procedure typically costs between ₹6,00,000 and ₹10,00,000 per ear. For most families, this expense translates into catastrophic healthcare debt or the heartbreaking decision to forgo treatment altogether.Punjab's health minister Balbir Singh reiterated that the govt is committed to building an inclusive healthcare system where advanced medical care is accessible to every child, irrespective of financial background. "With this vision, the Bhagwant Mann govt launched the Mukhya Mantri Sarvan Ashirwad Yojana, ‘Sunan Da Haq Sabda', ensuring that no child is deprived of hearing due to economic constraints. Under this initiative, the govt is providing 100% free cochlear implant surgeries, bearing the entire cost, including the implant device, surgery, and hospitalisation."The Punjab health minister said, "Cochlear implant surgeries commenced in govt medical colleges and are now available in all 4 govt medical colleges of Punjab, completely free of cost, marking a significant step towards equitable, specialised, and compassionate healthcare for all."