ISLAMABAD:
The Prime Minister’s National Health Programme, inaugurated on Thursday by PM Nawaz Sharif, is the brainchild of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who also played a key role in its groundwork.
Sources said Maryam Nawaz first suggested the idea and later contributed in all the phases of its formation – from its planning and preparation to launch.
“Through this programme, she wants to ensure free medical treatment to the poor as she wants to see the country as a truly welfare state,” said a source in the ruling party, adding that the programme could not possibly have materialised without her personal interest.
The programme has been launched in 15 districts in the first phase and will later be expanded to 23 districts of the country. Free medical treatment will be provided to poor patients suffering from seven serious diseases, including heart ailments, cancer and diabetes.
Around 1.2 million cardholder families will get this facility in the first phase and each patient will be allowed free medical treatment of up to Rs300,000.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 1st, 2016.
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