Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to ensure that there is no hospital in the province where doctors, paramedical staff, medicines and required medical equipment are not available.
Chairing a three-hour meeting on the restructuring of health system, a five-year plan for upgrading the department, review of system reform and improvement of management of rural health centres (RHCs) and dispensariesm she approved phased reforms in the system.
Issues related to maternal and child health, including the provision of standard treatment facilities, were reviewed.
The chief minister issued directives for the constitution of a Health Advisory Council to ensure transparency. The council will include government officials, professionals and public representatives.
She called for a plan for the upgrade, construction and rehabilitation of the basic and rural health centres while ensuring uniformity in their design. The communications and works secretary was asked to present the proposed building designs in a fortnight.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawazf also called for installing Urdu signboards and proper floor lining in hospitals to guide the public.
Ordering immediate provision of free medicines to patients, she called for a plan to set up a field hospital to bring the health facilities to the doorsteps of people.
She directed the officials concerned to send mobile health units to suburban areas and villages on scheduled days. Each unit will have a medical officer, lady health visitor, dispenser and other staff besides the necessary medical equipment.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 3rd, 2024.
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