Chandigarh, November 20, 2025: Free dialysis services are now operational in 40 government hospitals across Punjab, expanding access to kidney care and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients who previously relied on costly private treatment.
According to the state health department, the network currently includes 23 district hospitals, 14 sub-divisional hospitals and 3 community health centres. Officials said the aim is to make dialysis services available within shorter distances so patients do not have to travel to major cities for each session.
Between April 2024 and November 2024, a total of 4,831 patients availed the service, and 32,800 dialysis sessions were conducted under the programme.
The government has also partnered with the Hans Foundation and other social organisations to strengthen infrastructure. As part of this collaboration, 30 dialysis machines have been installed in eight hospitals. Officials said the partnership model helps expand services without additional burden on patients.
The service is available free of cost to all patients, and no income criteria have been applied. Dialysis, which is often a recurring and expensive procedure, had previously placed significant financial strain on families seeking treatment in private hospitals.
Health officials said patient records are now being maintained digitally to ensure continuity of care across government facilities. Along with dialysis sessions, patients receive consultations from specialist doctors, required medicines and nursing support.
The health department has announced plans to extend dialysis services to all 64 government hospitals in the state in the next phase of expansion.
