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Free OPD launched to Sehat Card
Free OPD launched to Sehat Card. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s Health Facilitation Card initiative integrates free OPD services, medicines, diagnostic tests, and consultations for underprivileged communities across Mardan, Malakand, Kohat, and Chitral. Supported by a 2 billion German grant, the program alleviates financial burdens on low-income patients while strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
By prioritizing equitable access, it bridges healthcare disparities and fosters an inclusive health system, underscoring the province’s commitment to sustainable development and poverty reduction through improved public health outcomes. This collaborative effort highlights transparent resource allocation and patient-centric policies, setting a national precedent for addressing systemic gaps. Marking a transformative stride, KP demonstrates how strategic health investments can uplift vulnerable populations and inspire nationwide progress.
Key Details of the Project
According to Provincial Health Minister Ehtesham Ali, this initiative is a link to bring the health system of the province closer to the needs of the people. Key aspects of the project:
- Free OPD facilities: Patients will be provided with free examinations, medicines, and diagnostic tests in government and private hospitals.
- Pilot project: After initial implementation in four districts, the facility will expanded to all 36 districts in a phased manner.
- Transparency measures: Saving Rs 1 billion per month in the Sehat sahulat Card budget, which will be spent on other medical programs.
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German Aid Guarantees the Success of the Project
The Rs 2 billion grant provided by the German government has not only made OPD facilities possible but this money will be used in the following areas:
- Installation of modern medical equipment in government hospitals.
- Increasing the stock of free medicines for poor patients.
- Investing in the training of doctors and paramedical staff.
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What Is the Timeline for Phased Expansion?
The provincial health advisor outlined the phased expansion of Outpatient Department (OPD) services under the Sehat Card program, commencing in four districts during its initial phase. Over the following six months, the initiative will extend to 12 districts, with province-wide implementation targeted by 2025. This strategic rollout has been carefully planned, accounting for critical factors such as regional patient demographics, geographical accessibility challenges, and the current capacity of healthcare facilities to manage demand.
The gradual approach ensures services are distributed effectively, addressing the unique needs of diverse regions while optimizing resource allocation. By prioritizing these elements, the government seeks to eliminate healthcare disparities, enhance service quality, and guarantee equitable access for all residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This initiative not only strengthens immediate healthcare delivery but also establishes a sustainable framework for a comprehensive, inclusive health system across the province, promising long-term improvements in public health outcomes.
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How the New Health Card Model Saves You Money and Hassle
According to Ehtisham Ali, irregularities in the Sehat Card system have been curbed through digitalization and data analytics, resulting in:
- Savings of Rs 1 billion per month, which will spent on additional facilities for patients.
- Biometric verification system to prevent fraudulent transactions.
- Real-time information on facilities available to patients through an online portal.
Turning Public Response Into Tangible Future Commitments
The project has received overwhelming public acceptance in its initial stages. “Getting free medicines for the first time has reduced my medical expenses by 70%,” says Shakeel Ahmed, a patient from Mardan. The provincial government has pledged to:
- Access to free OPD facilities to 500,000 families by 2024.
- Deployment of 24-hour emergency medical staff in all hospitals.
- Activation of ambulance services in rural areas.
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Conclusion
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s healthcare initiative marks a transformative step for underprivileged patients, offering a replicable model for Pakistan. Partnering with Germany ensures expertise and resources, while transparent budgeting and patient-centric policies prioritize equitable access. This approach enhances healthcare quality and underscores health investment’s role in sustainable development. By addressing systemic gaps and fostering accountability, KP sets a national precedent, demonstrating that committed public health strategies can drive progress and uplift vulnerable communities. This program exemplifies how collaboration and strategic planning can achieve lasting societal impact, inspiring other regions to follow suit.