Patna: All India Institute of Medical Sciences Patna on Thursday inaugurated a new Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Centre at its AYUSH Building, expanding access to HIV/AIDS treatment and care services in Bihar.
The centre was inaugurated by Sumit Kumar, Project Director of Bihar State AIDS Control Society, and Raju Agarwal during a ceremony attended by senior officials, faculty members and healthcare professionals.
According to officials, the launch of the ART Centre raises the total number of ART facilities in Bihar to 35, marking a further expansion of the state’s HIV treatment network.
Focus On Accessible HIV Treatment
Addressing the gathering, Sumit Kumar said the new centre would strengthen Bihar’s healthcare infrastructure by providing treatment, counselling and follow-up services for people living with HIV under one roof.
He emphasised the importance of expanding accessible and stigma-free HIV care facilities across the state.
Raju Agarwal said the establishment of the ART Centre reflected AIIMS Patna’s commitment to inclusive and patient-centric healthcare services.
“HIV/AIDS should be viewed purely as a medical condition and not through the lens of discrimination or social exclusion,” he said.
Role Of The New Centre
Jyoti Prakash, Nodal Officer of the ART Centre and Head of the Department of General Medicine, said the facility would help ensure timely treatment, regular monitoring and counselling services for patients.
Officials said the centre is expected to benefit patients from Patna and adjoining districts by reducing pressure on existing treatment facilities in the state.
The event was also attended by Krishna Pandey, Ajit Kumar, Rajesh Kumar Sinha and Nilotpal Bal.
Call For Collaborative Efforts
Speakers at the event highlighted the need for coordination between healthcare institutions, government agencies and the wider community to reduce stigma and improve support systems for people living with HIV/AIDS.
The inauguration ceremony saw participation from faculty members, nursing officers, healthcare workers, administrative officials and staff from AIIMS Patna and BSACS.
