Collaborative action for cancer care: Uzbekistan, UNOPS, and IsDB deliver a major oncology equipment initiative

In response, the government, in collaboration with UNOPS, has launched a significant initiative to procure and deliver advanced oncology equipment across 13 regions and Tashkent city, supported by a $70.7 million loan from the Islamic Development Bank.

In this joint shared mission, UNOPS assisted with the procurement, supply, installation, and operationalization of essential medical equipment, consumables, and ancillary items with adherence to national legislation and IAEA safety standards for radioactive items. The project aimed to provide 150,000 cancer patients with enhanced oncology services annually, increasing daily outpatient clinical services by 40% and inpatient services by 20%.

As of October 2024, UNOPS has delivered over $60 million worth of equipment to 14 project locations, including all 13 country regions and Tashkent city. This includes approximately 1,500 pieces of equipment, with 90% already installed and ready for use. The newly inaugurated Oncology and Radiology Medical Center in Tashkent received equipment valued at over $30 million - it is 500+ units of equipment. 

The categories of equipment - ranging from radiation therapy devices to imaging systems, surgical tools, laboratory analyzers, and information technology - will play a critical role in facilitating the expected outcomes of the project.

There are 3 linear accelerators, 5 brachytherapy units, 12 radiotherapy devices, 17 stationary digital X-ray units, and 21 mobile X-ray units in the center. This radiation therapy equipment will enhance treatment capabilities, providing advanced tools for oncologists and reducing side effects through precision-targeted therapies.

7 MRI machines, 6 MSCT machines, 3 angiography systems, and 1 PET/CT unit among other imaging systems will provide early diagnosis and better management of diseases with access to information for decision-making. 

“There are only a few MRI machines like this in the world. It enables the diagnosis of a wide range of tumors, including very small ones. Previously, we had to refer patients to other clinics [abroad] for examinations. Now, we can quickly and accurately diagnose right here [in Uzbekistan]. This has elevated our center to the highest global standards”, noted Odiljon Akhmedov, head of department of the center.

Surgical and anesthesia equipment (anesthesia machines and ventilators, surgical instruments and operation theater equipment) will allow for a wider range of operations, enhancing surgical efficiency and outcomes. 

It is reported that with the new equipment, the center plans to perform 6,000 high-tech operations annually, including oncosurgical, minimally invasive, angiosurgical, radiosurgical, neurosurgical, reconstructive, and bone marrow transplants.

“As you walk through the floors of this center and see all the equipment we have acquired - much of it once only a dream - you realize this is the most advanced technology available in the world. With such extensive resources, we can accommodate a large number of patients, allowing them to receive care without needing to travel abroad”, says Elena Boyko, oncourologist, doctor of medical sciences. 

Laboratory equipment in the center will strengthen diagnostic capabilities, reduce manual workloads and enhance accuracy, while patients benefit from quicker diagnosis and better health management. Information technology and data management, such as cancer registry software, IT equipment, including computers, servers, and LAN infrastructure, will promote data-driven decision-making, improve tracking of health outcomes and streamlines access to patient information. 

“Thanks to the new equipment and improved conditions, the efficiency of early detection and treatment of cancer at the center will increase significantly. As a result, this will reduce mortality rates, improve recovery rates, and extend lives. Additionally, it will serve as a foundation for the development of medical tourism”, press service for the Office of the President reported.