Karnataka's first government-run IVF centre to start operations in Hubballi
The facility at Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute was developed at a cost of Rs 1.37 crore through CSR initiatives.
The first government-run in vitro fertilisation (IVF) centre in Karnataka is set to become operational at the Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute (KMCRI) in Hubballi, according to the Deccan Herald.
The infrastructure for the advanced fertility treatment was developed a year ago under the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives of Maanaveeya Kalyana Trust and Hutti Gold Mines Limited (HGML) at a cost of Rs 1.37 crore.
The centre previously faced delays due to a lack of government guidelines and necessary medical and supportive staff. However, following government approval, the recruitment of an assisted reproductive technology (ART) consultant and an embryologist has been completed.
KMCRI Medical Superintendent Dr Ishwar Hasabi said the centre is ready to offer services after completing administrative procedures. He noted that beneficiaries have been shortlisted and the facility will provide free services under the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST).
Dr Hasabi said the team is waiting for the opening of the SAST portal to upload names of beneficiaries covered under the Ayushman Bharat - Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) scheme. The centre is expected to start functioning within a few weeks.
While several private hospitals provide IVF services in major cities, Dr Hasabi noted that high costs prevent poor people from availing the service.