K-P unveils executive checkup for seniors

Free health checkup will be provided to citizens aged 65 and above

PESHAWAR:

In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing healthcare services, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has introduced an executive health service tailored for senior citizens, offering them access to medical care with dignity, respect, and convenience.

Under the leadership of the provincial Health Minister, Syed Qasim Ali Shah, directives have been issued to implement a special examination program known as the ‘Executive Health Checkup’ across all government hospitals in the province.

The minister emphasized that this initiative aims to afford the esteemed senior citizens of the province the opportunity to undergo their check-ups in a dignified manner, eliminating the need to wait in queues.

Additionally, a special card will be issued to senior citizens, containing comprehensive records of their previous check-ups and treatments. Furthermore, the card will grant them access to free diagnostic tests every three months along with their check-ups.

Recognizing the invaluable contributions of senior citizens to the province, the minister emphasized that they are an asset, having devoted their precious years in service to the community. This initiative stands as a testament to the province’s gratitude for their dedication and service.

To swiftly implement this initiative, the Directorate General Health Services has dispatched letters to all medical superintendents across the province, instructing them to take practical measures within seven days to commence free screenings every three months for senior citizens aged 65 years and above in government hospitals. These screenings will encompass general check-ups, ultrasounds, laboratory tests, CT scans, MRIs, and other essential facilities, all provided free of charge in government hospitals every three months.

The K-P minister recently reiterated the necessity of bolstering the district-level primary healthcare system to alleviate the burden on major hospitals in Peshawar. At a one-day training workshop for Lady Health Workers coordinators under the Primary Health Care Reform Project, he underscored the urgency of enhancing the system to ensure the delivery of essential healthcare services in health centers and DHQ hospitals across the province.

Despite acknowledging the existing challenges in the healthcare sector, he emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in overcoming them, asserting his commitment to providing top-notch healthcare, especially in underserved regions.

Addressing the LHWs coordinators, he assured swift resolution of their concerns, stressing the paramount importance of prioritizing public health. He emphasized the ethical treatment of patients and pledged to enhance hospital facilities. Recognizing the indispensable role of doctors, he emphasized the collective responsibility of the healthcare team in serving the populace.

Dr Shaukat Ali, the Director General of Health Services in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, emphasized the need to enhance the skills of LHWs to fortify the primary healthcare system and pledged continuous support for improving healthcare services.

Published in The Express Tribune May 8^th, 2024.