In a significant move to enhance healthcare access for women, the Maharashtra Health Department has launched menopause clinics and a palliative care programme across the state. The initiative, which began in January 2026, aims to provide specialised care for women during and after menopause, along with support for those suffering from long-term illnesses.
The state-run menopause clinics are designed to offer counselling, medical advice, and necessary treatments for women undergoing menopause, which can often lead to physical, emotional, and psychological challenges.
These clinics will be spread across various districts, targeting both urban and rural areas where healthcare facilities are scarce. The programme is part of a broader effort to ensure that women can access care for issues related to ageing and health conditions unique to them.
The government’s move comes as part of a larger focus on improving the health services for marginalised groups, particularly those in rural or underprivileged areas. Maharashtra’s health officials highlighted the importance of offering palliative care, especially to individuals suffering from chronic illnesses who need long-term support.
The palliative care programme provides pain management, psycho-social support, and counselling services to individuals, primarily focusing on those with terminal illnesses.
Dr Abhijit Jadhav, Maharashtra’s Health Minister, reportedly praised the initiative, stressing that it addresses a critical gap in women’s health services and offers much-needed relief to those suffering in silence. "This is a crucial step in ensuring that no woman, especially in rural areas, is left behind when it comes to receiving quality healthcare," Jadhav said.
The newly launched menopause clinics are not only intended to address the physical symptoms of menopause but also to provide mental health support, helping women navigate emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings that can accompany hormonal changes. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of women, offering them much-needed care and counselling.
In parallel, the state has also taken steps to address the needs of people requiring palliative care, ensuring that individuals with life-limiting illnesses are provided with compassionate care in both urban and rural settings.
The programme is part of a long-term strategy to improve healthcare access and ensure dignity in the later stages of life for individuals from all walks of life. Health experts are optimistic about the potential impact of these initiatives to improve healthcare for women and those with chronic illnesses.
As the programme rolls out across Maharashtra, many hope that it will serve as a model for other states in India to emulate, particularly in bridging healthcare gaps for women and the elderly.
While the implementation of these programmes is a positive step forward, experts believe more needs to be done to ensure wider accessibility and awareness.
Outreach campaigns to educate communities about menopause and palliative care, especially in rural and remote areas, are essential to the success of these initiatives.
As India continues to grapple with various healthcare challenges, the launch of these specialised services for women is a reminder of the ongoing need for comprehensive, accessible healthcare solutions.
