In a pioneering step toward integrating technology with patient care, the DAE-Civil Hospital Cancer Wing, Shillong, has initiated a VR-Assisted Guided Imagery Therapy and Study on 8th May 2025. Spearheaded by the State Cancer Society of Meghalaya in collaboration with Ojaska Labs LLP and supported by SMRATA Trust, this initiative explores the therapeutic use of Virtual Reality (VR) to alleviate treatment-related distress and enhance the emotional well-being of cancer patients undergoing chemo-radiation. An official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also held during the event, marking the collaboration between the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, Ojaska Labs LLP, and SMRATA Trust. This partnership formalizes joint efforts in deploying VR-Assisted Guided Imagery for cancer patients in Meghalaya, aiming to set new benchmarks in digital therapeutics for oncology care.
This initiative brings together cutting-edge VR technology and evidence-based guided imagery therapy to address the overlooked emotional and psychological challenges in cancer care. By allowing patients to virtually enter calming, immersive environments tailored to manage symptoms like anxiety, pain, and fatigue, Meghalaya is setting a precedent for compassionate, tech-driven healing in clinical settings. Highlighting the objectives of the project, Dr. Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, expressed optimism and shared the vision behind the VR-Assisted Guided Imagery Study, emphasizing its transformative potential for cancer care.
“Through Virtual Reality-Assisted Guided Imagery, we are introducing a powerful tool that not only addresses physical symptoms like pain, nausea, and fatigue but also brings relief from the emotional and psychological stress of chemotherapy and radiation.” A detailed presentation was also given by Dr. Sarat Addanki, Chairman of SMRATA and OJASKA Labs, who explained the study’s framework, the role of guided imagery in reducing anxiety, and the deployment of VR headsets to provide immersive, calming environments for patients.
