In a landmark development for Assam’s healthcare sector, Assam Medical College & Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh has been officially recognized as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Rare Diseases. This makes it the first such facility in Assam and only the second in Northeast India, following RIMS Imphal.
This recognition, granted by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, marks a major step forward in the diagnosis, treatment, and research of rare genetic and metabolic disorders in the region.
AMCH Centre of Excellence: A Milestone in Assam’s Medical History
With this designation, AMCH Centre of Excellence joins a select group of institutions across India working to address the challenges of rare diseases. These diseases, while individually uncommon, collectively affect over 70 million Indians, according to the National Policy for Rare Diseases.
For many patients in Assam and the Northeast, access to early diagnosis and specialized treatment has long been a challenge. With this new status, AMCH Dibrugarh aims to close that gap.
What the CoE at AMCH Will Offer
The Centre of Excellence at AMCH will provide:
- Advanced genetic testing and diagnostics
- Multidisciplinary clinical care for rare disease patients
- Research and clinical trials on rare conditions
- Genetic counseling and patient registries
- Support services for families and caregivers
“This CoE will not only bring hope to patients but also position AMCH as a leader in rare disease care,” said Dr. Bitul Chetia, Principal of AMCH.
Northeast India’s Second Rare Disease CoE
Until now, RIMS Imphal in Manipur was the only recognized Centre of Excellence in Northeast India. The addition of AMCH Centre of Excellence significantly improves regional access to rare disease services.
This is especially crucial for a geographically diverse and often underserved region like the Northeast, where healthcare infrastructure varies widely.
Why Rare Disease Care Is Urgently Needed
Rare diseases often remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, due to lack of awareness and limited testing facilities. Patients suffer not only from complex symptoms but also from social stigma and financial strain.
The National Policy for Rare Diseases, launched in 2021, identifies the need for Centers of Excellence to provide holistic care and improve outcomes. The recognition of AMCH fits into this nationwide strategy.
AMCH’s Existing Strengths and New Role
Founded in 1947, Assam Medical College is one of the oldest and most respected medical institutions in Eastern India. It already boasts strong departments in pediatrics, genetics, biochemistry, and internal medicine—all critical for rare disease management.
By becoming a Centre of Excellence, AMCH will now receive additional funding, training, and infrastructure support from the central government.
Government’s Commitment to Healthcare in Assam
This development aligns with Assam’s growing healthcare momentum. Recently, the state government approved over ₹900 crore in funding for new hospitals and upgraded diagnostics.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has consistently emphasized accessible and modern healthcare as a key priority.
Regional Impact: Better Access, Early Intervention
With AMCH’s new role, patients from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Meghalaya will no longer need to travel to Delhi, Bangalore, or Mumbai for rare disease consultations.
This improves not just access, but also early intervention, which is critical for managing many rare diseases that are progressive or life-threatening.
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