The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has approved a ₹120 crore project to introduce advanced CT scan and MRI facilities at three municipal hospitals under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The diagnostic services will be offered at rates 20% lower than those prescribed under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
The project, which will be implemented over a 10-year period, aims to improve access to advanced diagnostic imaging services while reducing investigation costs for patients visiting MCD-run healthcare facilities.
Three Municipal Hospitals to Receive Advanced Imaging Equipment
According to an official statement issued on Oct 20, the proposed facilities will be established at Hindu Rao Hospital, Swami Dayanand Hospital and the Rajan Babu Institute of Pulmonary Medicine and Tuberculosis.
The project includes the installation of at least three 128-slice CT scanners and three 1.5 Tesla MRI machines across the selected hospitals.
The new equipment is expected to strengthen diagnostic capabilities at these institutions and provide patients with access to essential imaging investigations at reduced rates.
Private Agency to Bear Installation and Operational Costs
Under the approved PPP arrangement, a private agency will finance the installation, maintenance and operation of the diagnostic facilities. The MCD will provide the required space within the hospital premises while retaining ownership of the property.
Of the estimated ₹120 crore investment, approximately ₹40 crore has been allocated towards capital expenditure, including equipment installation and necessary infrastructure arrangements. The remaining ₹80 crore is expected to cover operational expenses during the 10-year concession period.
The civic body stated that the arrangement would not impose any financial burden on the MCD, as the private partner would be responsible for the investment and operational expenditure.
Digital Systems to Support Radiology Services
Alongside the imaging equipment, the hospitals will receive Radiology Information System and Picture Archiving and Communication System (RIS/PACS) infrastructure.
These systems will support digital radiology reporting, storage and management of medical images and diagnostic records. Their introduction is expected to improve the handling of imaging reports and associated patient information.
Focus on Affordable Diagnostic Healthcare
MCD Standing Committee Chairperson Satya Sharma said the initiative is intended to make advanced diagnostic investigations more accessible to Delhi residents, particularly those from economically weaker sections.
Sharma stated that expanding CT scan and MRI services at municipal hospitals would help patients obtain essential medical investigations at affordable rates while strengthening the Corporation’s healthcare infrastructure.
The project forms part of the civic body’s efforts to expand diagnostic services at its healthcare institutions through private-sector participation.
However, the MCD has not announced a timeline for commissioning the facilities. The exact charges for individual CT scan and MRI investigations under the proposed pricing structure have also not been disclosed.