Dedicated Midlife Support Launched
In a significant move towards comprehensive women's health, the Maharashtra Health Department has established 580 specialized Menopause Clinics across
its public health infrastructure. These facilities, operational since January 14, 2026, are strategically located within government hospitals and urban health centers, offering weekly outpatient services every Wednesday. The primary aim is to address the multifaceted health needs women experience during midlife, encompassing physical, hormonal, and emotional well-being. These clinics provide essential services completely free of charge, including gynaecological consultations, crucial counseling sessions, and screenings for bone health, heart conditions, and hormonal imbalances. Furthermore, they offer necessary medications and expert guidance, consolidating these vital resources under one roof. Women can access these services by visiting their nearest government hospital or a designated urban health facility. This groundbreaking initiative is poised to benefit countless women statewide, particularly those who have previously faced barriers in accessing structured and specialized care for menopause-related concerns.
Early Impact and Reach
The newly established Menopause Clinics have already demonstrated a substantial impact within their initial operational period. From January 14 to February 11, 2026, a total of 31,288 women have been examined across the 580 clinics. These clinics are distributed throughout district hospitals, sub-district hospitals, municipal hospitals, and selected rural hospitals, spanning 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. The reach extends to major municipal corporations as well, such as Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan‑Dombivli, Mira‑Bhayander, Ulhasnagar, Panvel, Pimpri‑Chinchwad, Solapur, Vasai‑Virar, and Malegaon. Of the 31,288 women seen, 30,034 have received treatment, and 82 have been referred for more specialized medical attention, highlighting the program's effectiveness in addressing diverse health needs.
Palliative Care Program Launched
In parallel with the expansion of menopause care, Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has officially inaugurated the Maharashtra Palliative Care Programme. This new initiative is designed to provide comprehensive support and pain management for individuals living with long-term and often debilitating illnesses. The program emphasizes a holistic approach, offering psycho-social support, essential family counseling, and accessible home-based services for patients battling conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, various neurological disorders, chronic respiratory ailments, and other age-related health challenges. An official from the State Health Department confirmed that Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are actively involved, equipped with lists of potential beneficiaries. The department is diligently working to compile a complete roster of individuals who stand to benefit from this crucial support system, ensuring that those in need receive timely and adequate care.
