In the realm of cancer treatment, few diagnoses strike as much fear as head and neck cancer, which accounts for 30% to 40% of all cancers in India. But for those facing this daunting challenge, the Head and Neck Cancer Institute of India (HNCII) in Mumbai is a beacon of hope. I had the personal experience of navigating this journey recently, as my father underwent laser surgery for throat cancer at the institute. From start to finish, the care, expertise, and facilities at HNCII were nothing short of exceptional, transforming a difficult situation into one marked by professionalism and compassion.
The HNCII, known for its specialized focus on head and neck cancers, offers some of the best treatment options available in the country. The institute is headed by Dr. Sultan Pradhan, one of the leading oncologists in the country.
Alongside him is Dr. Pratmesh Pai, a renowned surgical oncologist, whose expertise in laser surgeries for head and neck cancers is among the best in India. My family and I were fortunate to have been in their capable hands, and I can confidently say that their reputation is well-earned.
Comprehensive, State-of-the-Art Treatment
The 93-bed facility, which commenced operations on August 15, 2023, is a brainchild of Dr Pradhan. It specializes in treating head, neck, and women’s cancers and seeks to offer comprehensive, cost-effective care.
Funded through a unique public-private partnership with the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), HNCII was established at a cost of Rs 250 crore, supported by donations from patients and philanthropists. Notable contributors reportedly include the Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation, Jamshedji Tata Trust, HDFC, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, and foundations run by Cipla, Azim Premji, Mahindra, and DMart, among others.
What sets HNCII apart is not only the highly trained medical professionals but also the cutting-edge facilities it offers. The hospital is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment technologies, ensuring that patients receive the most accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment.
For my father, laser surgery was the recommended procedure. The decision was made after careful consultation, where we were guided through every step of the process with clarity. The surgical team explained the procedure in detail, ensuring we felt well-informed and reassured.
When it came time for the surgery, the precision and expertise of the medical staff were evident. The laser technique used for my father’s treatment resulted in minimal recovery time and significantly reduced post-operative discomfort, demonstrating the incredible advantage of minimally invasive treatments at the hospital.
Ethical and Compassionate Care
One of the most remarkable aspects of HNCII is the care given not just by the doctors but by the entire staff. From the nurses to the paramedics, the level of professionalism and compassion shown to us was unparalleled. At a time when we were emotionally fragile, it was heartening to see how every member of the team treated us with empathy and respect. The medical staff took the time to answer all our questions, made sure we were comfortable during our stay, and provided continuous updates on my father’s condition.
The hospital has a clear commitment to ethical practices, prioritizing patient well-being above all else. This transparent approach is a comfort in a field where trust between patient and healthcare provider is paramount.
Affordable and Accessible Treatment
In an age where healthcare costs can be astronomical, particularly at corporate hospitals, one of the most surprising aspects of our experience at HNCII was the affordability of treatment. While the institute offers better facilities and expertise, it does so at rates that are significantly lower than those found at many private corporate hospitals in India. The hospital uses the same charges levied as at the private wing of the centre-run Tata Memorial Hospital in Parel. This makes high-quality treatment accessible to a much larger segment of the population, which is a critical factor for many cancer patients who may face financial constraints during their treatment journey.
A Place of Hope
For anyone facing the terrifying uncertainty of a head or neck cancer diagnosis, the Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India offers a reassuringly supportive, professional, and cutting-edge environment. The seamless integration of skilled doctors, modern facilities, and ethical care creates an atmosphere where patients are not just treated, but truly cared for.
As someone who has experienced their care firsthand, I can wholeheartedly recommend HNCII to anyone in need of treatment for head and neck cancer. My father’s successful surgery and recovery are a testament to the institute’s excellence. If you or a loved one are navigating the challenging road of cancer treatment, rest assured that HNCII provides the best possible care in an environment that is as compassionate as it is advanced.
The ethical standards and the level of care provided by the team at HNCII have forever changed the way I view healthcare in India. If you are facing a similar challenge, do not hesitate to seek their guidance. At HNCII, the journey through cancer treatment is made not just easier, but more human.
In times of crisis, finding the right medical team can make all the difference. HNCII, with its high-class treatment and patient-centered approach, stands out as a leading institution in the fight against head and neck cancer in India.
(Author is a senior journalist covering Jammu and Kashmir for Deccan Herald)
