Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled an ambitious plan to improve healthcare services throughout the province. The initiative focuses on upgrading over 1,200 Basic Health Units (BHUs), with 200 of them set to provide round-the-clock medical services by March.
A key component of the reform is the launch of the Maryam Nawaz Community Health Services program, which will enhance community-based healthcare. The government aims to expand its workforce by integrating 39,000 lady health workers and hiring 20,000 additional health inspectors through outsourcing. This expansion will strengthen vaccination campaigns, disease management, and record-keeping.
Additionally, the reforms emphasize preventive healthcare through awareness programs and health screenings, especially for maternal and child health. To ensure proper execution, the government has mandated the availability of doctors, medical staff, essential medicines, and equipment in all public hospitals. A health advisory council, comprising government officials, medical experts, and public representatives, has also been formed to oversee implementation and maintain transparency.
These reforms reflect the Punjab government’s commitment to making high-quality healthcare accessible to all citizens, aiming for a transformative impact on the province’s medical infrastructure.