Top 5 cancer hospitals in Bhutan

Bhutan, a small Himalayan nation known for its commitment to Gross National Happiness, has made significant strides in healthcare over the years. However, when it comes to specialized cancer treatment, the country still faces notable limitations. Unlike larger nations with dedicated oncology centers, Bhutan does not have specialized cancer hospitals. Instead, cancer care is integrated into general medical services at a few key hospitals.

For those diagnosed with cancer in Bhutan, treatment options are often limited, and patients requiring advanced care frequently seek medical services abroad, primarily in India. Nevertheless, several hospitals in Bhutan provide essential cancer-related services, including diagnosis, chemotherapy, and follow-up care. Below is a closer look at the major healthcare facilities in Bhutan that cater to cancer patients.

1. Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH)

Location: Thimphu
Specialty: National referral hospital and primary center for cancer treatment

JDWNRH is Bhutan’s leading hospital and the main referral center for cancer patients. The Oncology Ward, established in 2011, provides chemotherapy and follow-up care. While Bhutan lacks radiotherapy services, JDWNRH plays a critical role in surgical oncology, offering procedures for cancers that can be treated with surgery alone. For cases requiring radiation therapy or complex chemotherapy regimens, patients are referred to specialized hospitals outside the country.

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The hospital also offers cancer screening services, particularly for cervical and breast cancer, which are among the most prevalent cancers in Bhutan. Early detection programs and preventive health measures have become increasingly emphasized to curb the rising cancer burden.

2. Mongar Regional Referral Hospital

Location: Mongar, Eastern Bhutan
Specialty: Regional referral hospital providing general specialized care

Serving the eastern region of Bhutan, Mongar Regional Referral Hospital is a crucial healthcare facility for patients who cannot easily access JDWNRH in Thimphu. While not specifically designed for cancer care, the hospital provides essential medical services, including initial diagnosis and some forms of cancer management.

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Patients requiring more complex treatments are often referred to JDWNRH or medical facilities abroad. Nonetheless, Mongar Regional Referral Hospital continues to play an important role in offering primary and secondary healthcare services for cancer patients in the region.

3. Phuentsholing General Hospital

Location: Phuentsholing
Specialty: General medical services with possible basic cancer screening

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Located near the Indian border, Phuentsholing General Hospital serves as a critical medical facility for people living in southern Bhutan. While it is not an oncology center, the hospital may provide basic cancer screenings and preliminary evaluations. Given its proximity to India, many Bhutanese patients from this region travel to Indian hospitals for specialized oncology services, particularly in Siliguri and Kolkata.

4. Central Regional Referral Hospital (CRRH), Gelephu

Location: Gelephu
Specialty: One of Bhutan’s best hospitals, providing general medical services

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Previously known as Gelephu General Hospital, CRRH has grown into a major healthcare facility in Bhutan. While it does not have a dedicated oncology department, it serves as an important referral hospital. Patients diagnosed with cancer may receive initial care here before being referred to JDWNRH or hospitals in India.

5. MIOT Hospitals Information Centre (MHIC) in Bhutan

Location: Thimphu
Specialty: Facilitates access to advanced healthcare services abroad

MIOT Hospitals Information Centre in Thimphu does not provide direct cancer treatment. Instead, it serves as a bridge between Bhutanese patients and MIOT Hospitals in India, which offer world-class oncology services. This center helps coordinate patient referrals and travel arrangements for those needing specialized treatment unavailable in Bhutan.

The Challenge of Cancer Treatment in Bhutan

While Bhutan has made considerable progress in improving healthcare infrastructure, cancer treatment remains a significant challenge. The primary issues include:

Lack of Radiotherapy Services: Bhutan does not have radiotherapy facilities, which are critical for treating various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and cervical cancers. Patients requiring radiation therapy must travel abroad, adding financial and logistical burdens.
Limited Oncology Specialists: The country has a small number of trained oncologists, making it difficult to provide specialized cancer care. Bhutan relies on collaborations with Indian hospitals and international healthcare organizations for support and training.
High Cost of Treatment Abroad: Since many cancer patients need treatment outside Bhutan, the cost of medical care, travel, and accommodation can be overwhelming for families. The Bhutanese government does provide financial aid in some cases, but not all expenses are covered.
Delayed Diagnoses: Due to the lack of specialized cancer centers, many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment. Increased awareness and improved screening programs are essential for early detection.

Efforts to Improve Cancer Care in Bhutan

Despite these challenges, Bhutan has been working to enhance its cancer care services. Several initiatives have been launched to improve early detection and treatment, including:

Cancer Screening Programs: Bhutan has expanded its cervical and breast cancer screening programs, supported by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bhutan Cancer Society.
Collaboration with International Hospitals: Bhutan partners with hospitals in India, Thailand, and other countries to provide better access to specialized cancer care. Many Bhutanese doctors also receive oncology training abroad.
Government Support for Cancer Patients: The Bhutanese government assists in covering the cost of treatment abroad for eligible patients. Efforts are being made to increase funding and improve accessibility to life-saving care.

The Future of Cancer Treatment in Bhutan

Bhutan’s healthcare system is evolving, and cancer care is receiving more attention. While the country still lacks specialized oncology hospitals, ongoing efforts to improve screening, diagnosis, and access to treatment offer hope for better outcomes. In the long run, investments in medical infrastructure, training, and international partnerships will be crucial in enhancing cancer care for Bhutanese patients.

Until Bhutan can establish its own specialized cancer centers, collaboration with foreign hospitals and a focus on preventive healthcare remain the most effective strategies for managing cancer within the country. Increased awareness, early detection, and improved healthcare funding will be essential in reducing the cancer burden and ensuring better health outcomes for the Bhutanese people.

Final Thoughts

Cancer treatment in Bhutan presents many challenges, but the country is making strides in improving healthcare access. Hospitals like JDWNRH, Mongar Regional Referral Hospital, and CRRH provide essential services, while partnerships with international medical institutions help fill the gaps. As Bhutan continues to strengthen its healthcare system, future advancements in cancer care will be critical to ensuring that patients receive the treatment they need, closer to home.