Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially launched a new health card program aimed at providing free healthcare services to residents of Islamabad, Azad Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). This initiative seeks to improve access to medical treatment for a wide range of health conditions.
Details of the Health Card Program
The program links health cards to citizens’ identity cards, enabling beneficiaries to receive free medical care at more than 640 public and private hospitals across Pakistan. It offers an annual coverage of up to Rs1 million per family, supporting treatment for serious illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, kidney ailments, and injuries from accidents.
Duration and Coverage
- The health card scheme is effective immediately and will continue until June 30, 2027.
- It covers both government and private healthcare facilities nationwide.
- The program had been suspended for two years prior to this relaunch, during which residents faced difficulties accessing critical medical treatments.
Significance of the Initiative
Valued at Rs41 billion, the Universal Health Coverage Program aims to ease the financial burden on families by providing substantial support for medical expenses. This relaunch is expected to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability for thousands of families in Islamabad, AJK, and GB.
