Economic Survey 2025-26: Situation and Challenges of the Health Sector in Pakistan
The Government of Pakistan has recently released the Economic Survey 2025-26, which reviews the country's economic and social development. This report focuses specifically on the health sector. According to the report, health facilities and related indicators in Pakistan lag significantly behind other regional countries.
The report makes the alarming revelation that Pakistan is spending less than one percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on the health sector. Experts state that with such a small amount, improving the condition of hospitals across the country and providing modern medical facilities to the public is a major challenge. Due to this budget shortage, medical treatment is becoming increasingly expensive and difficult for the common man.
Compared to other South Asian countries, Pakistan has fallen behind in achieving most health targets. Countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have significantly improved their health budgets and facilities. In Pakistan, infant mortality rates and preventive measures against diseases are still not yielding the results seen in other countries in the region.
The purpose of this Economic Survey report is to inform the government of these shortcomings so that future planning can be improved. According to experts, if Pakistan wants to provide a better life for its citizens, it must increase the health budget and make medical centers in rural areas functional. Only a healthy society can play a significant role in the country's economic development.