Sree Chitra denies treatment to poor patients with serious tremor disorder

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) has come under scrutiny for denying free surgeries to underprivileged patients suffering from severe movement disorders such as dystonia and Parkinson’s disease. Many of these patients, plagued by uncontrollable tremors, are unable to carry out basic daily activities such as drinking water or eating without assistance.

The highly specialised neurostimulation surgery — costing around Rs 15 lakh — was earlier offered at no cost under the Central Government’s Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN) scheme. The procedure involves implanting a battery in the chest with wires leading to the brain to deliver controlled electrical impulses, effectively reducing tremors and improving mobility.

However, since the scheme’s application process went online in 2019, patients have found it increasingly difficult to access the benefit. Though SCTIMST continues to submit applications, authorities claim that approvals from the Centre are not being granted, stalling the process indefinitely.

Contrary to these claims, reports suggest that the central government is still allocating funds under the scheme. The delay, insiders allege, stems from lapses in the hospital’s documentation and application procedures. The RAN scheme, launched in 2009, supports treatment for life-threatening diseases and is implemented only in a limited number of institutions, including AIIMS.

Superintendent can approve Rs 2 lakhs, yet...

• As per the scheme guidelines, SCTIMST receives an annual allocation of Rs 50 lakh. Hospital authorities can seek additional funds by submitting accurate expense reports.
• Furthermore, the hospital superintendent has the authority to approve up to Rs 2 lakh per case without needing central clearance. But even this provision remains underutilised, with officials citing technical difficulties.

Treatment stalled
For patients with severe movement disorders who no longer respond to medication, neurostimulation offers the only effective relief. The delay in providing surgery — once a routine, free procedure at SCTIMST — has now left many in prolonged suffering.

Prior to 2019, dozens of patients received timely treatment under the scheme each year, backed by substantial central funding. With the process now stalled, medical experts and patient rights groups are calling for urgent intervention to restore access to this critical care.

Approved funds and beneficiaries (Until 2019 when the scheme functioned properly):
Year Funds sanctioned Number of patients
2018–2019 Rs 137.65 crore 33 patients
2017–2018 Rs 82.13 crore 32 patients
2016–2017 Rs 147 crore 34 patients