Thane Offers Free Oxygen Concentrators to Chronic Lung Patients

Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has launched a new scheme to provide free oxygen concentrators for residents with chronic lung diseases. The initiative targets those struggling with rising medical costs, particularly patients from economically weaker backgrounds who need long-term oxygen therapy at home. The proposal was led by Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Prasad Patil and later approved by Mayor Sharmila Pipolkar. TMC will reuse oxygen concentrators originally donated during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. All machines have been serviced and are now fully operational for immediate distribution.

The scheme focuses on residents suffering from asthma, pneumonia, lung infections, and other long-term respiratory conditions. Officials noted that increasing pollution, changing lifestyles, and post-COVID-19 complications have caused a sharp rise in such illnesses across Thane. By offering free concentrators, the corporation aims to ease the financial burden on patients while reducing pressure on local hospitals. Eligible individuals can now receive necessary treatment at home instead of relying on hospital-based care.

The initiative repurposes existing resources to address growing health challenges in the city. Patients with chronic respiratory disorders will gain access to essential equipment without cost. This step is expected to improve home-based care and reduce hospital admissions for long-term oxygen therapy cases.