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As India's cancer-care needs continue to grow, specialised oncology networks could become an important part of building a more connected and patient-focused healthcare system, according to Dr. Tanvi Singh, medical oncologist, MOC Cancer Care.
Dr. Singh stated that patients today have access to better diagnostic tools, newer medicines, advanced radiation techniques and highly specialised cancer centres. Yet for many people, one basic challenge remains: getting the right care at the right time.
India is already moving towards decentralising cancer care. As of July 2026, India had 524 Day Care Cancer Centres under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases. These centres are being developed through a hub-and-spoke approach to bring day-care oncology services closer to patients.
"There is a practical reason for this approach. Cancer treatment is rarely a one-time visit. Many patients need multiple cycles of treatment, regular blood tests, consultations and follow-ups. When these services are available closer to home, the burden of repeated travel can be reduced. A specialised oncology network can work effectively only when its centres are connected to a wider system of oncologists, diagnostic services, tertiary hospitals and clinical expertise. Standardised treatment protocols, trained healthcare professionals, multidisciplinary consultations and clear referral systems are therefore essential," added Dr Singh.
“Rather than concentrating every aspect of cancer treatment in a few large hospitals, a network-based model can bring selected cancer services closer to where patients live. Patients can receive appropriate treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, follow-up care, supportive care and monitoring at centres closer to home, while complex cases can continue to be referred to larger hospitals when required,” added Dr Singh.
The National Cancer Grid, for instance, brings together cancer centres, research institutions, patient groups and charitable organisations with the aim of promoting common standards of cancer care, training and research across India.
Recent research on childhood cancer in India has also highlighted the burden of travel. A 2026 study reported a median motorised travel time of 161 minutes to tertiary paediatric oncology centres among the centres studied.
Dr Singh further said that technology can further strengthen this model. Digital medical records, tele-oncology consultations and remote multidisciplinary discussions can help doctors at smaller centres stay connected with specialists at larger cancer institutions. This can reduce the need for patients to travel simply to access specialist advice.”
“Cancer affects much more than a patient's physical health. For an elderly patient, someone undergoing prolonged treatment or a family already dealing with financial pressures, that difference can be significant,” added Dr Singh.
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