What is Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital?

Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital (BCH) is a government-supported, specialized oncology hospital located in Bhaktapur, Nepal. It is one of the few medical institutions in Nepal exclusively dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of cancer patients.

Established to bridge the gap in accessible cancer care in Nepal, BCH offers integrated oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, palliative care, and public education on cancer awareness.

Location

• Address: Dudhpati, Bhaktapur-2, Bagmati Province, Nepal

• Proximity: Approximately 13 km east of Kathmandu city center

• Access: Easily accessible via Arniko Highway; local buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services available

History and Background

• Established in 1992, under the support of the Ministry of Health and Population and cancer-focused health organizations

• Initially founded as a small clinic, it expanded into a full-fledged cancer hospital due to rising cancer cases in Nepal

• Operates as a non-profit hospital, offering affordable and accessible oncology care to both urban and rural populations

BCH is known for its commitment to early detection, holistic treatment, and compassionate end-of-life care.

Medical Services Offered

1. Outpatient and Diagnostic Services

• Cancer screenings (breast, cervical, oral, prostate, colon)

• Biopsies and FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)

• Mammography, ultrasound, X-ray

• CT scans and lab testing

2. Inpatient Services

• Oncology wards with medical and surgical beds

• Isolated rooms for patients undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppression

• Palliative care beds for advanced-stage cancer support

3. Chemotherapy and Drug Therapy

• Daily chemotherapy units for solid tumors and blood cancers

• Medication support and counseling

• Pain management programs

4. Surgical Oncology

• Tumor resection surgeries

• Biopsies and staging operations

• Minor and major operative procedures performed by oncology surgeons

5. Radiotherapy (under partnership)

• Radiation treatment is available via partnership with other cancer centers such as B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital (Bharatpur) or external institutions in Kathmandu

• Future expansions aim to include in-house radiotherapy units

 Medical Team and Expertise

• Team includes:

  • Oncologists (medical, surgical)

  • Radiologists and pathologists

  • Oncology nurses and support staff

  • Trained palliative care providers

• Regular collaborations with cancer specialists from India, Japan, and WHO-supported programs

Affordability and Access

• Low-cost treatment model designed for all socioeconomic backgrounds

• Free treatment or subsidized rates for:

  • Underprivileged patients

  • Children and elderly with cancer

  • Government health insurance card holders

 The hospital also supports free cancer screening camps in remote areas and awareness programs for early detection.

 Training and Education

• Conducts workshops and awareness events on:

  • Tobacco-related cancers

  • Cervical and breast cancer screening

  • Nutrition and lifestyle in cancer prevention

• Trains healthcare workers and community educators in cancer care and early diagnosis

 Community Outreach

Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital is active in:

• Rural cancer camps in underserved districts

• School and college awareness programs

• Advocacy for palliative care rights

• Supporting cancer survivors and caregivers through mental health and wellness programs

 Contact Information

• Phone: +977-1-6618157 / 6618158

• Location: Dudhpati-2, Bhaktapur, Nepal

• Email: info@bch.gov.np (if applicable)

• Note: Limited online presence; appointments and inquiries typically made via phone or in-person visit

 Fun Facts & Trivia

• One of the few hospitals in Nepal to focus entirely on non-communicable disease (NCD) management, especially cancer

• Serves over 10,000 cancer patients annually

• Named as a model for community-based oncology in developing countries

• Supports hospice and terminal care, which is rare in Nepal’s public health infrastructure

Conclusion

Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for cancer patients in Nepal, offering affordable, comprehensive, and dignified care for all stages of cancer. Its work in early detection, patient-centered treatment, and community engagement makes it a vital part of Nepal’s evolving health system.

Whether you’re seeking diagnosis, treatment, or long-term support, BCH is a trusted destination for compassionate and quality cancer care.