In a major breakthrough for northeastern India’s healthcare system, Assam Medical College & Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh has been officially designated as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Rare Diseases under the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD), 2021. This recognition places AMCH among an elite group of only 15 such centres across India.
Government Approves AMCH as a National Leader in Rare Disease Care
The Rare Disease Cell of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare issued a formal memorandum on Tuesday, confirming AMCH’s inclusion among the country’s top government-run tertiary hospitals. These institutions specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating rare diseases.
As per a report by the GPlus News, AMCH is now the first institute in Assam and only the second in the Northeast, after RIMS Imphal, to receive this distinction.
AMCH Celebrates a Historic Milestone
Dr. Sanjeeb Kakati, Principal and Chief Superintendent of AMCH, expressed pride in this achievement.
“This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing world-class healthcare services to the people of Assam and the Northeast. We are honoured to join RIMS Imphal as the second Centre of Excellence for rare diseases in the region and look forward to serving patients with complex medical conditions,” he said.
Transforming Rare Disease Management in the Northeast
With this new designation, AMCH will operate under the provisions of the NPRD 2021 and guidelines issued by the ministry. The institution must now adhere to the highest standards of care, while also playing a key role in national research efforts.
This development significantly enhances the healthcare landscape for patients suffering from rare and complex conditions in the region. Individuals no longer need to travel to distant metropolitan hospitals for advanced treatments. AMCH and RIMS Imphal can now provide specialised care closer to home.
Rare Diseases Require Specialised Care
Rare diseases, which affect fewer than 1 in 2,000 people, often require advanced diagnostic tools and treatment protocols that are not commonly available. By achieving CoE status, AMCH gains access to enhanced research infrastructure. It also benefits from cutting-edge therapies and a larger pool of expert medical professionals.
A New Chapter in AMCH’s 77-Year Legacy
Established in 1947, AMCH stands as the oldest medical college in Northeast India. Over the past 77 years, the institution has continuously adapted to the region’s evolving healthcare needs. This latest recognition marks a significant leap forward in its journey of service, innovation, and excellence.
Aligning with India’s Healthcare Vision
This move supports the government’s broader goal of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare across India. It particularly benefits regions that have historically lacked specialised services. The government has designated AMCH as a Centre of Excellence. As a result, thousands of rare disease patients in the Northeast can look forward to a brighter future.