NA panel calls for strengthening infrastructure before expanding federal hospitals

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (NHSR&C) has emphasised that prioritising manpower and strengthening existing healthcare infrastructure must take precedence over hospital expansion projects in the federal capital.

Chaired by Dr Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA, the committee met at the Parliament House on Friday to discuss budgetary proposals for the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for the fiscal year 2025-2026.

During the session, the committee reviewed key healthcare projects under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination and addressed concerns regarding the performance of hospitals in Islamabad and the state of ongoing health initiatives across Pakistan. The ministry presented its development portfolio for 2025-2026, comprising 41 major projects with a proposed budget of Rs154.59 billion. These initiatives aim to improve healthcare infrastructure, medical facilities and human resource capacity in Islamabad’s public hospitals.

While acknowledging the need for these projects, the committee members expressed concerns about the effectiveness of past expenditures and fair distribution of resources. Committee chairman Dr Malani stressed that before expanding hospitals, ensuring adequate staffing levels must be the top priority, as many public hospitals already face severe human resource shortages.

The committee also underscored the importance of strengthening Basic Health Units, Rural Health Centres, and Community Health Centres in Islamabad and its surrounding areas to bridge gaps in healthcare services for underserved communities. It was highlighted that many of these facilities operate with limited staff and lack essential medical supplies.

Another critical issue raised was the transfer of District Health Office projects to the Capital Development Authority (CDA). The committee members voiced dissatisfaction with CDA’s handling of health-related projects in the past, stating that its performance had been subpar. The committee recommended creating an independent agency to oversee such projects rather than continuing to rely on the CDA. Members suggested that the ministry explore successful models implemented in other provinces, where dedicated construction units manage healthcare infrastructure development.

Looking ahead, the committee reaffirmed its commitment to regularly reviewing PSDP proposals to ensure funding is allocated to projects that deliver the greatest impact on healthcare services. The next meeting will further assess ongoing projects and discuss new initiatives, including neonatal care, hepatitis and diabetes treatment programmes and other innovative healthcare solutions.