Health minister wants essential medicines available at hospitals

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Minister Syed Qasim Ali Shah on Monday issued directives to ensure the provision of essential medicines for free at the public sector hospitals.

“The minister asked the officials to ensure uninterrupted delivery of healthcare services, including the utilization of donors for a robust supply chain,” a handout quoted him as saying. Syed Qasim Ali Shah undertook a formal visit to the Health Department after assuming his responsibilities.

Secretary Health Mehmood Aslam Wazir along with DGs and Programme heads, welcomed him The Health secretary presented a detailed overview of the Health Department to the minister. He was briefed on all ongoing developmental projects and the current state of affairs within the department.

Detailed insights on Health Card, medical teaching institutes, and other autonomous institutions were provided as well. Syed Qasim Ali Shah was informed that the Health Department’s budget exceeds 207 billion.

He acquired detailed information on Health Card Plus. Chief executive Sehat Card Plus Dr Riaz Tanoli replied that a comprehensive briefing on the initiative would be presented to the minister soon. The minister later proceeded to the Directorate General of Health Services. DG Health Dr Shaukat Ali briefed the minister on the Directorate General working and moderated an introductory session with directors.

Priority areas discussed included polio eradication, the provision of free medicines, and the delivery of top-notch healthcare services, especially through Health Card, in remote regions. The DG Health shared achievements in improving service delivery within the Health Department.