# A facility level cross-sectional survey to assess health system readiness for oral cancer care in Madhya Pradesh, India

## TL;DR

This study evaluates the readiness of healthcare facilities in Madhya Pradesh, India, to provide oral cancer care and finds areas needing improvement.

## Contribution

The study provides a detailed assessment of health system readiness for oral cancer care in a specific Indian region.

## Key findings

- Opportunistic screening and telemedicine were functional in most facilities.
- Shortcomings were identified in diagnostics, cancer medicines, and support staff like dentists and counselors.

## Abstract

Oral cancer is included under national NCD programs in India due to its high burden, societal and economic impact. Therefore, it is of
interest to assess the readiness of government healthcare facilities in two districts of Madhya to deliver good quality oral cancer care.
Assessment of 58 facilities revealed that opportunistic screening and telemedicine was functional and availability of manpower and supportive drugs was good. Shortcomings in availability of diagnostics, cancer medicines, information, education and communication (IEC) activities,
dentists, dieticians and counsellors were found. Further strengthening of oral cancer services under the NCD programs is essential for
comprehensive oral cancer care.