Radiation Therapy Cost in Mohali: Types, Sessions & What Insurance Covers

An authoritative patient guide to radiotherapy options, session planning, typical costs in Mohali & Punjab, insurance cover, packages and how Livasa Mohali can help.

Introduction

Radiation therapy (radiotherapy) is one of the three main pillars of cancer treatment alongside surgery and systemic therapy (chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy). For many patients in Mohali and across Punjab, radiotherapy either provides a curative option, helps control local disease, or relieves symptoms to improve quality of life. One of the questions most patients and families ask is: how much will radiation therapy cost in Mohali? This article addresses that question thoroughly and compassionately, explaining the different types of radiotherapy, how sessions are planned, the components that drive cost, and what insurance or government schemes may cover.

The financial aspect of cancer care can be stressful. Understanding the typical radiation therapy cost in Punjab and the options available for financing, package support, and cashless claims helps families plan better. We include realistic cost ranges for common modalities such as IMRT, VMAT, 3D conformal radiation, SBRT, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), brachytherapy and—where available—proton therapy, and explain what those figures usually include and exclude.

This resource is written for patients and caregivers in Mohali, SAS Nagar, Chandigarh-adjacent communities and the broader Punjab region. It incorporates nationally recognised statistics on cancer burden, practical steps to choose a radiotherapy centre, how many sessions to expect, and how Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Mohali can support you through consultation, planning and insurance facilitation.

What is radiation therapy and what are the common types?

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays (X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles) to destroy cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It can be delivered as external beam radiation (machine outside the body directs beams to the tumor) or internal radiation (brachytherapy, where radioactive sources are placed inside or near the tumor). The choice of technique depends on tumor type, location, stage, surrounding normal tissues, and patient health.

Common types of radiation therapy used in Mohali and Punjab include:

• 3D conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) — Uses CT-based planning to shape radiation beams to tumor volume. Cost-effective for many cancers and widely available in regional centres.
• Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) — Advanced form of external beam therapy that modulates beam intensity to spare normal tissue. IMRT is commonly used for head-and-neck, prostate, gynecological and lung cancers.
• Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) — A fast delivery form of IMRT; often reduces treatment time per session with comparable precision.
• Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) — High-dose, highly focused treatments delivered in a few fractions for small lung, liver, spine or other targets.
• Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) — Single-session or few-session high-precision therapy used primarily for brain lesions.
• Brachytherapy — Internal radiotherapy used in cervical, prostate and some breast cancers. It can be low-dose-rate (LDR) or high-dose-rate (HDR).
• Proton therapy — Uses charged particles with distinct physical properties to reduce dose beyond the target. Rare and typically not available locally in Mohali; costs and availability differ widely.

Each technique requires specialized equipment, imaging for planning (CT/MRI/PET), immobilization devices, treatment planning software and a multi-disciplinary team led by a radiation oncologist, medical physicist and radiation therapist. These technical and human resources contribute to the overall expense of treatment.

How are radiotherapy sessions planned and how many sessions will I need?

Radiotherapy is not one-size-fits-all. Before the first treatment, most patients undergo a planning phase:

• Consultation and evaluation: Review of tumor type, stage, prior treatments and medical fitness by a radiation oncologist.
• Imaging for simulation: CT simulation (often fused with MRI or PET) to define tumor and nearby organs at risk precisely. Immobilization devices are made during simulation to reproduce position each day.
• Treatment planning: The medical physicist and dosimetrist create a plan (IMRT/VMAT/3DCRT/SBRT) optimizing dose to the tumor while limiting exposure to normal tissues.
• Quality assurance: Machine and plan verification checks before the first fraction.

The number of sessions (fractions) depends on disease and modality:

• Conventional fractionation: 25–35 daily sessions over 5–7 weeks for many solid tumours.
• Hypofractionation / IMRT/VMAT: 10–20 fractions for select indications; some breast and prostate regimens use shorter courses.
• SBRT / SRS: 1–5 sessions for small, well-defined targets.
• Brachytherapy: HDR appointments may require multiple insertions over several days; LDR may involve an inpatient stay.

Session time varies: conventional IMRT/VMAT sessions may take 10–20 minutes at the machine (setup + imaging + delivery), while SBRT or SRS sessions may take longer due to immobilization and image verification. Brachytherapy involves procedure time and potential anesthesia.

For Mohali patients, centre-specific schedules and fractionation protocols may differ. The radiation oncologist will recommend a plan balancing disease control, side effects, convenience and cost. Many centres in Punjab, including Livasa Mohali, offer multidisciplinary tumour boards to customize fractionation and integrate systemic therapy or surgery when needed.

Radiation therapy cost in Mohali and Punjab: typical breakdown

The total cost of radiation therapy in Mohali is influenced by the modality chosen, number of sessions, complexity of planning, imaging requirements, hospitalization (for brachytherapy), and ancillary costs like lab tests, supportive medicines and follow-ups. Below is a practical cost breakdown to help you anticipate expenses. Figures are indicative ranges (INR) commonly seen in Mohali and other urban centres in Punjab as of 2024 — actual prices vary by centre, machine model and individual patient needs.

• Consultation and simulation imaging: INR 1,000–10,000 (consultation INR 500–2,000; CT simulation INR 3,000–8,000; MRI/PET-CT if needed INR 7,000–20,000).
• Treatment planning and dosimetry: INR 10,000–60,000 depending on complexity (IMRT/VMAT planning higher than 3D-CRT).
• Per-session delivery cost: External beam therapy per session in Mohali varies by modality:
  • 3D-CRT: INR 1,200–3,500 per fraction
  • IMRT/VMAT: INR 3,000–10,000 per fraction
  • SBRT/SRS: INR 20,000–80,000 per session (fewer fractions)
• Brachytherapy: HDR brachytherapy package INR 25,000–1,00,000 depending on number of insertions and anesthesia/hospital stay; LDR may be higher.
• Proton therapy: Rare in India; costs are typically several lakhs to crores depending on indication and centre (not commonly available in Mohali).
• Ancillary costs: Immobilization devices INR 1,000–10,000, verification imaging per session INR 500–2,000, medications for side effects and supportive care vary.

The total cost of radiation therapy in Mohali for a typical curative course may therefore vary:

• 3D-CRT course (25–30 fractions): INR 50,000–1,50,000 (including planning and imaging)
• IMRT/VMAT course (25–35 fractions): INR 1.2 lakh–4.5 lakh
• SBRT (1–5 sessions): INR 40,000–4,00,000 depending on target and technology
• HDR brachytherapy (for cervical/prostate): INR 40,000–2,00,000 depending on number of sessions and inpatient stay

These ranges reflect the variation between government hospitals, charitable trusts, and private tertiary centres. Government-run centres and schemes can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs. Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Mohali provides transparent estimates during consultation and offers packaged options to help patients budget for complete care.

Comparing radiotherapy options: benefits, limitations and typical costs

Choosing the right radiation technique requires comparing therapeutic benefit, toxicity risk and cost. The table below summarizes common modalities used in Mohali and Punjab with practical notes on indications, advantages and approximate cost bands.

The table helps patients compare modalities at a glance. Keep in mind: cheaper is not always better. An affordable 3D-CRT course may be appropriate for palliative treatment, but IMRT or VMAT may be recommended for curative intent when organ preservation and long-term function matter. Your radiation oncologist will explain the clinical trade-offs and the financial implications of each option.

Does insurance or government schemes cover radiotherapy in Mohali?

Many patients ask, does insurance cover radiation therapy Mohali? The short answer: yes, often—but coverage depends on the type of insurance plan, the hospital’s empanelment status, pre-authorization rules and the exact services billed. Here is a practical guide to insurance and government scheme navigation for radiotherapy patients in Mohali and Punjab.

Types of coverage:

• Private health insurance: Many plans cover cancer treatment including radiotherapy, but pre-authorization is typically mandatory. Coverage limits, co-pay clauses, and network hospitals affect out-of-pocket costs. IMRT/VMAT and advanced techniques may be subject to higher scrutiny or differential limits.
• Government schemes (Ayushman Bharat / PMJAY): Ayushman Bharat includes packages for cancer treatment in empanelled hospitals. Check if the radiotherapy centre in Mohali is empanelled for the specific package; packages often include consultation, imaging, basic planning and radiation delivery but may have exclusions for premium technologies or certain imaging modalities.
• State government or welfare schemes: Some state programs and charitable funds help residents of Punjab with treatment costs. Eligibility criteria and empanelment vary.
• Cashless facility: Many tertiary private hospitals in Mohali offer cashless radiotherapy (direct settlement with insurer) subject to pre-authorization. Confirm in advance and obtain written confirmation of what is covered to avoid surprise bills.

Practical steps to ensure smooth claims:

• Confirm whether the radiotherapy centre is empanelled with your insurer or Ayushman Bharat for the exact package before starting treatment.
• Obtain pre-authorization and an itemized estimate listing simulation, planning, per-fraction delivery and any inpatient charges.
• Keep diagnostic reports, histopathology, treatment plan and the radiation oncologist’s prescription handy for claim processing.
• Ask whether advanced imaging (PET-CT, MRI fusion), specialized immobilization devices or proton therapy are covered; if not, discuss alternatives or partial coverage options.

At Livasa Mohali, our insurance coordination team assists patients with paperwork, pre-authorization and claims. For immediate assistance call +91 80788 80788 or book a consultation online at Livasa Hospitals appointment. We facilitate cashless radiotherapy Mohali processes where possible and guide patients through Ayushman Bharat radiotherapy Mohali pathways.

How to choose the best radiotherapy centre in Mohali

Selecting the right radiotherapy centre is as important as choosing the right modality. Important factors to consider if you are searching for a "radiotherapy centre near me Mohali" include technology, team expertise, quality assurance, accreditation and supportive services. Below are patient-friendly criteria and practical tips for evaluating centres in Mohali and nearby Chandigarh areas.

• Technology availability: Does the centre have modern linear accelerators capable of IMRT/VMAT/SBRT? Is there access to brachytherapy suites and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) for precise delivery?
• Clinical expertise: Look for experienced radiation oncologists and medical physicists. Ask how many similar cases (e.g., head & neck IMRT, prostate SBRT) the team treats monthly.
• Multidisciplinary care: Optimal cancer outcomes require coordination between medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiology and pathology — a multidisciplinary tumour board is a positive sign.
• Quality and safety: Check for accreditation, routine QA protocols, peer review of plans and adherence to national/international guidelines.
• Patient support services: Pain management, nutrition, psychosocial support, lymphedema therapy and rehabilitation are invaluable during and after radiotherapy.
• Transparency and pricing: Does the centre provide written cost estimates, package options, and help with insurance and financial counselling?

Livasa Mohali meets many of these criteria: advanced linear accelerators capable of IMRT/VMAT, a dedicated brachytherapy suite, an experienced radiation oncology team, and on-site insurance facilitation. For patients seeking the best radiotherapy center in Mohali, a pre-treatment visit to review equipment, meet the team, and request a sample treatment plan summary can be reassuring.

Financial assistance, radiotherapy packages and financing options in Mohali

Financial planning is a critical part of cancer care. Many hospitals in Mohali offer packaged radiotherapy plans that bundle consultation, simulation, planning and delivery into a single price to reduce uncertainty. Packages can be particularly helpful for IMRT or VMAT courses where per-fraction pricing can otherwise inflate the final bill.

Common financing and assistance options include:

• Hospital packaged offers: These typically include consultation, CT simulation, target delineation, plan generation and a set number of fractions. Livasa Mohali provides tailored radiotherapy packages in consultation with the treating oncologist — ask for a cost breakup radiation therapy Mohali during initial counselling.
• EMI and financing: Some centres partner with banks or NBFCs to offer medical EMIs for treatment costs, enabling families to spread expenses over months.
• Charitable funds / NGOs: Several national and local charities assist cancer patients with partial or full funding for radiotherapy; hospital social workers can help with applications.
• Crowdfunding and community support: Many families successfully raise funds through online platforms—documented quotes and a treatment plan typically strengthen campaigns.

Tips to reduce unexpected costs:

• Request a detailed cost breakup radiation therapy Mohali that separates simulation, planning, per-fraction delivery, anesthetic and inpatient charges.
• Ask which imaging tests are essential versus optional; some advanced imaging (PET-CT) may add to costs but can refine planning.
• Inquire about negotiated rates if you are self-paying—centres sometimes offer concessional pricing or phased payments for long courses.

If you are exploring "cancer radiation packages Mohali" or "Livasa Hospitals Mohali radiation therapy cost," we recommend scheduling a financial counselling session at Livasa Mohali where our team will provide a written estimate and discuss cashless options, Ayushman Bharat eligibility, and potential financing solutions.

Patient journey: what to expect during radiotherapy and how to prepare

The radiotherapy journey typically includes several steps from first visit to follow-up. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety and helps ensure a smoother course. Below is a typical pathway for a patient receiving external beam radiotherapy in Mohali.

• Initial consultation: History-taking, review of pathology and staging, discussion of treatment aims (curative vs palliative), side effects and expected schedule.
• Simulation visit: CT simulation with proper immobilization; marking and imaging used for planning.
• Planning and QA: The plan is created and peer-reviewed; this may take several days depending on complexity.
• First fraction: On the day of first treatment, the team verifies position using image guidance; the session is typically longer initially to confirm setup.
• Ongoing therapy: Daily or scheduled sessions; weekly reviews by the radiation oncologist to manage side effects like skin changes, fatigue, mucositis or others depending on site.
• End of treatment and follow-up: Post-treatment visits to assess response and late side effects; coordination with medical oncology/surgery if combined modality therapy is planned.

Preparing for radiotherapy:

• Bring prior diagnostic images and pathology reports; digital copies speed up planning.
• Wear comfortable clothing and follow site-specific instructions (e.g., bladder full for pelvic radiotherapy).
• Ask about transportation needs—daily visits may be tiring; some centres provide accommodation for outstation patients.
• Discuss fertility preservation, dental evaluation or swallowing assessment if treatment involves reproductive organs, oral cavity or head & neck.

Side effect management and supportive care are central to Livasa Mohali’s approach. Our team provides nutritional advice, topical care for skin reactions, pain control, and referral to physiotherapy or counselling as needed. Active communication with your radiation oncologist about new symptoms reduces interruptions and helps maintain treatment efficacy.

Statistics, outcomes and why timely radiotherapy matters

Understanding the scale of cancer and the impact of timely, appropriate radiotherapy helps families put decisions in context. Globally, cancer incidence continues to rise — according to GLOBOCAN estimates, there were roughly 19–20 million new cancer cases annually in recent years with nearly 10 million cancer deaths. India contributes a substantial share of the global burden; national estimates indicate over one million new cancer cases each year, and the numbers continue to increase.

In Punjab, patterns mirror national trends with rising incidence of sites such as head & neck, breast and cervix in women, and lung and prostate in men. Early and guideline-concordant radiotherapy can significantly improve survival for many curable cancers (e.g., early-stage head & neck, cervix, prostate) and provides meaningful palliation for advanced disease.

Outcome data depends on cancer type and stage, but examples include:

• Curative radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy can provide 5-year survival rates above 60–70% for selected early-stage tumours.
• SBRT for selected early-stage lung cancers has local control rates exceeding 80–90% at 2–3 years in properly selected patients.
• Brachytherapy combined with external beam radiation is the standard curative approach for locally advanced cervical cancer with excellent pelvic control rates.

These outcomes highlight the importance of access to modern radiotherapy technologies and skilled teams in Mohali and across Punjab. Early referral and completion of planned courses are crucial to achieving the best results.

Conclusion and next steps: how Livasa Mohali can help

Navigating the cost and logistics of radiation therapy in Mohali doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Understanding the different modalities (IMRT cost Mohali, VMAT cost Mohali, 3D conformal radiation therapy cost Mohali, SBRT cost Mohali, brachytherapy cost Mohali, stereotactic radiosurgery cost Mohali), the number of sessions, and how insurance or government schemes like Ayushman Bharat apply will help you make informed decisions.

Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Mohali provides comprehensive radiation oncology services with experienced radiation oncologists, advanced treatment machines, brachytherapy facilities and an insurance coordination team. We offer transparent cost estimates, packaged options for many treatment pathways and assistance with cashless claims when applicable. To discuss an individualized treatment plan, cost estimate or insurance facilitation, please contact Livasa Mohali:

If you are searching for "radiotherapy near me Mohali" or "radiotherapy centre Mohali", we encourage you to schedule a consultation for a personalised estimate. Our team will provide a clear cost breakup, discuss insurance coverage including Ayushman Bharat radiotherapy Mohali possibilities, and outline financing or charitable options where needed.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: How much does radiation therapy cost per session in Mohali?
A: Per-session costs vary by technique. Typical ranges: 3D-CRT INR 1,200–3,500; IMRT/VMAT INR 3,000–10,000; SBRT can be much higher per session due to complexity. The total depends on number of fractions and planning costs.

Q: Does Ayushman Bharat cover radiotherapy in Mohali?
A: Many empanelled hospitals provide coverage for cancer packages under Ayushman Bharat. Coverage depends on the empanelment and specific package; advanced technologies may have separate billing rules.

Q: Are there low-cost options for radiotherapy in Punjab?
A: Government hospitals and charitable trusts may provide subsidised care. Some private centres offer packaged rates and payment plans. Discuss options with the hospital social worker or financial counsellor.

Q: What is IMRT cost Mohali compared to 3D-CRT?
A: IMRT/VMAT planning and delivery are more resource-intensive and hence more expensive overall compared to 3D-CRT. However, when organ-sparing reduces toxicity or the need for additional interventions, IMRT may be clinically and economically justified.

Q: How long does each radiation therapy session last?
A: Typically 10–30 minutes per session including positioning and imaging; SBRT or complex cases may take longer.

If you have more questions or wish to discuss the Livasa Hospitals Punjab radiation therapy cost for a specific diagnosis, call +91 80788 80788 or book online at Livasa Hospitals appointment.

Disclaimer: Cost ranges and statistics provided in this article are indicative and may change over time. Exact pricing and coverage depend on individual clinical needs, centre policies and insurer terms. For a personalised estimate and clinical advice, consult a qualified radiation oncologist at Livasa Mohali.