New Menopause Clinics
Maharashtra's Health Department has launched a significant public health initiative by establishing 580 specialized Menopause Clinics across its government
hospitals and urban health centers. These clinics commenced operations on January 14, 2026, and are designed to provide women with dedicated weekly outpatient services every Wednesday. The primary objective is to address the multifaceted physical, hormonal, and emotional health challenges that women often encounter during their midlife transition. Services offered are entirely free of cost and include expert gynecological consultations, essential counseling sessions, and crucial screenings for bone density, cardiovascular health, and hormonal imbalances. Furthermore, patients receive necessary medications and personalized guidance all within a single, accessible location. Women can directly access these facilities by visiting their nearest government hospital or a designated urban health center, ensuring structured menopause care is now within reach for thousands, particularly those previously underserved.
Programme's Initial Impact
The impact of the newly established Menopause Clinics has been substantial since their inception. Between January 14 and February 11, 2026, these 580 clinics, strategically located in district, sub-district, municipal, and selected rural hospitals, have already provided care to a significant number of women. A total of 31,288 women have been examined, with 30,034 receiving treatment. Of these, 82 individuals were referred for specialized medical attention, highlighting the comprehensive approach taken by the program. The clinics are operational across numerous districts including Akola, Amravati, Buldhana, Washim, Yavatmal, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Hingoli, Jalna, Parbhani, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, Sangli, Sindhudurg, Beed, Dharashiv, Latur, Nanded, Bhandara, Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Gondia, Nagpur, Wardha, Ahilyanagar, Dhule, Jalgaon, Nandurbar, Nashik, Pune, Satara, Solapur, Palghar, Raigad, and Thane. Additionally, major municipal corporations such as Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan‑Dombivli, Mira‑Bhayander, Ulhasnagar, Panvel, Pimpri‑Chinchwad, Solapur, Vasai‑Virar, and Malegaon are also integrated into this extensive network.
Palliative Care Initiative
Concurrent with the launch of the Menopause Clinics, Maharashtra's Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has also inaugurated the Maharashtra Palliative Care Programme. This vital program is specifically designed to support individuals grappling with long-term and life-limiting illnesses. Its core offerings include comprehensive pain management strategies, essential psycho-social support to address the emotional toll of chronic conditions, family counseling services to help navigate the challenges, and importantly, home-based care services for patients who require ongoing support within their own environments. The program targets patients suffering from a wide spectrum of ailments, encompassing cancer, heart disease, diabetes, various neurological disorders, chronic respiratory ailments, and other age-related health complications. Officials have indicated that Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) are already equipped with lists of potential beneficiaries, and the process of compiling a definitive list of individuals requiring this specialized care is actively underway, underscoring the state's commitment to holistic patient well-being.
