Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has underscored her government’s dedication to providing top-tier healthcare facilities to the people. In a comprehensive three-hour session held on Saturday, she outlined plans for restructuring the health system and implementing a robust five-year strategy to elevate the health department and improve services at rural health centres (RHCs) and dispensaries.
A major highlight of the meeting was the announcement of a specialized hospital dedicated to delivering advanced cancer treatment to underprivileged patients. Maryam emphasized the significance of public awareness campaigns and health screenings, particularly focusing on maternal and child health at the basic health unit (BHU) level.
The Chief Minister mandated the availability of doctors, paramedical staff, medicines, and essential medical equipment in all provincial hospitals. To ensure transparency, she ordered the formation of a health advisory council comprising government officials, healthcare professionals, and public representatives.
Maryam also stressed the standardization of the design and functionality of BHUs and RHCs, along with the immediate provision of free medicines to patients. Plans were initiated during the meeting to deploy mobile health units to rural and suburban areas, with a pilot project slated to commence in Lahore.
Furthermore, Maryam reiterated her commitment to merit-based appointments in the management of public sector hospitals, pledging zero tolerance for corruption and nepotism. The meeting, attended by key officials including Secretary Health Ali Jan and former senator Pervez Rasheed, demonstrated a concerted effort to overhaul Punjab’s healthcare landscape for the betterment of its citizens.