Karachi is home to millions of people who depend on government-run hospitals and clinics for their medical needs. However, the reality is that these healthcare facilities are severely underfunded, overcrowded and understaffed, leaving residents with limited access to quality care.
The situation has been exacerbated by the rapid population growth, which has increased demand for healthcare services, putting additional strain on already overwhelmed hospitals. Long waiting times, outdated medical equipment, and a shortage of essential medicines are just a few of the issues that patients face daily. Moreover, the absence of modern healthcare infrastructure in many localities means that residents often have no choice but to rely on private facilities, which are unaffordable for the vast majority of the population.
The lack of a robust public healthcare system is particularly concerning in the wake of recent health crises, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Karachi’s public hospitals struggled to cope with the overwhelming number of patients, and many of the city’s most vulnerable residents were left without adequate medical care. This highlights the urgent need for substantial reforms in the healthcare sector to improve both the quality and accessibility of services.
The government must prioritise investment in the public healthcare sector, with a focus on modernising hospitals, expanding access to medical care in underserved areas, and training healthcare professionals to meet the city’s growing needs. Additionally, there should be a concerted effort to reduce corruption within the healthcare system, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and efficiently to where they are most needed.
Without these measures, Karachi’s public health system will continue to deteriorate, leaving many vulnerable to preventable diseases and health crises.
Munib Fatima
Karachi
