Health authority seeks mobile clinic vehicles

Sets sights on expanding Clinic-on-Wheels programme to the district level

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi District Health Authority (DHA) has sought 10 vehicles from the Punjab government, setting its sights on expanding the Clinic-on-Wheels programme across the district.

Initially launched with eight vehicles catering to selected union councils, the programme has garnered acclaim for its mission of bringing free medical services right to people’s doorsteps under the slogan “Sahat Aapki Dehleez Par” (Health at your doorstep). Now, in a bid to extend this vital service across the entire district, DHA has appealed for ten additional vehicles from the Punjab government.

According to official sources, the decision to broaden the Clinic-on-Wheels initiative aligns with the broader aim of the government to enhance healthcare accessibility. This expansion will not only involve deploying more vehicles but also recruiting additional medical professionals, and support staff, and equipping these mobile clinics with laboratory facilities.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals from low-income backgrounds can easily access essential medical care without the barriers of distance or affordability.

Each Clinic-on-Wheels unit comprises a dedicated team of healthcare experts, including medical officers, medical specialists, family planning specialists, and support staff. These units offer a range of services, from dispensing medications to conducting tests for glucose and blood pressure levels.

Moreover, they play a crucial role in educating the public about family planning and the significance of proactive health management.

District Health Authority Chief Executive Dr Ijaz Ahmed highlighted the ongoing efforts to bolster healthcare infrastructure in areas like Murree, where mobile dispensaries have already been integrated into the Clinic-on-Wheels programme.

Plans are underway to upgrade primary health centres and establish a separate District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ) to cater to the growing healthcare needs of the region, particularly considering Murree's status as a popular tourist destination, he said.

“The collaboration between the District Health Authority and local authorities reflects a proactive approach towards enhancing healthcare services, ensuring that communities, including those in remote or underserved areas, have access to quality medical care.”

Dr Ijaz further said the forthcoming expansion of the Clinic-on-Wheels programme is poised to make a significant impact by bridging healthcare gaps and promoting well-being throughout the Rawalpindi district.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 23^rd, 2024.