ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination was briefed on Monday about a critical shortage of around one million nurses in Pakistan.
During the meeting chaired by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chisti, officials discussed the composition, functioning, and operations of the Ministry of National Health Services (NHSRC). The Secretary NHSRC highlighted the severe nurse shortage, emphasizing the challenges and workforce issues plaguing the healthcare system, particularly in rural areas.
The Secretary also underscored the need for increased funding to revamp the ministry’s operations. The dire condition of hospitals, including the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), was a key point of discussion.
Ministry officials outlined key initiatives and programs, stating their strategy involves a multi-framework approach for effective implementation. One such initiative, the Sehat Sahulat Programme, which provides free health insurance to families living below the poverty line of $2 per day, was thoroughly reviewed.
Committee members expressed concern over the significant portion of Pakistan’s population living in poverty. Senator Muhammad Humayun Mohmand urged the ministry to prioritize managing this vulnerable demographic.
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In the briefing on Polio Eradication Initiatives, the Secretary reported efficient progress under the coordination of Senator Ayesha Raza Farooq, with expected positive results by next year. However, challenges like Afghan repatriation remain, with the first health dialogue with the Afghan government scheduled for September.
The committee also discussed the new policy framework and the Prime Minister’s Quaid-e-Azam Health Tower initiative in Islamabad. This project aims to focus on super specialties, research, and medical education. The Secretary explained that current funds are allocated for feasibility studies, with detailed planning to follow.
Attendees included Senators Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, Abdul Qudoos, Syed Masroor Ahsan, Liaqat Khan Tarakai, Muhammad Humayun Mohmand, Rahat Jamali, Mohammad Abdul Qadir, the Secretary of NHSRC, the President of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), the CEO of DRAP, and senior ministry officials.
