Thoracic Medicine History

Established in the Year: 1921

Memorable details of history about the Institute

The Historical Journey of the Institute of Thoracic Medicine, Chetpet, Chennai

• Introduction
• The Institute of Thoracic Medicine, nestled in the heart of Chetpet, Chennai, boasts a rich and storied history that predates the days of India's independence. Originally established as the King Edward VII Memorial Tuberculosis Institute in 1916, this institution holds a special place in the annals of respiratory healthcare in the region.

• Early Beginnings
• In July 1916, the King Edward VII Memorial Tuberculosis Institute came into existence in Madras, now Chennai. The genesis of this institute was marked by a collective endeavor to create a fitting tribute to the late King Emperor. The exact location on Pantheon Road remains somewhat mysterious. A significant milestone occurred in 1917 when Lord Pentland, the governor at that time, laid the foundation stone for a new building at a site adjacent to the Spur Tank in Chetpet.
• The iconic peach-colored building, crowned with a distinctive dome, was completed by 1921. Lord Willingdon inaugurated this architectural marvel, which, in its inaugural year, attended to the healthcare needs of over 3000 patients.

• Upgrades and Transformations
• In 1937, the TB Institute in Chetpet witnessed a transformative upgrade, courtesy of funds received from the King George V Memorial Fund. This transformation paved the way for the establishment of the State TB Hospital, with the Institute of Thoracic Medicine and Chest Diseases of the Madras Medical College becoming an integral part of its identity.

• Tertiary Care and Scientific Excellence
• The Institute of Thoracic Medicine in Chetpet has evolved into a tertiary care institution, dedicated to addressing the diverse respiratory ailments affecting the populace. From tuberculosis, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB, to non-tuberculous diseases, the institute plays a pivotal role in the healthcare landscape.
• This institution is not just a healthcare provider; it serves as the scientific bedrock for numerous studies conducted at the Tuberculosis Research Center (TRC) under the aegis of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
• The groundbreaking studies include the present Short Course Chemotherapy (SCC) - Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) program, a global initiative implemented by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• Pioneering Outpatient Care and Training Hub
• A testament to its commitment to innovation, the Institute of Thoracic Medicine in Chetpet has been at the forefront of healthcare practices. Notably, for the past 30 years, the institute has been treating Multi Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR TB) patients on an outpatient basis, a pioneering approach that predates its formal inclusion in the National TB Elimination Program.
• Moreover, this institution has served as a cornerstone for training programs, imparting knowledge on tuberculosis to doctors and paramedical professionals across the state of Tamil Nadu. Its impact extends beyond its immediate patient population, influencing the broader healthcare landscape.
• The Institute of Thoracic Medicine, with its roots reaching back to the early 20th century, stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to respiratory healthcare.
• From its humble beginnings to its current status as a tertiary care and research powerhouse, the institute continues to shape the narrative of thoracic medicine, not just in Chennai but across the nation. Its legacy, marked by scientific excellence and patient-centric care, underscores the crucial role it plays in the ongoing fight against respiratory diseases.