New Changes in Pakistan's Health Sector: Challenges and Significant Progress
Several significant changes and challenges are currently emerging in Pakistan's health sector. While the government is attempting to improve the system through modern technology on one hand, some old diseases and a low budget remain major issues on the other. In these circumstances, work is ongoing at various levels to improve the health of citizens.
According to a recent report, Punjab has become the first province in Pakistan to start digitally storing the health and population data of its citizens. Similarly, the child health system in Balochistan is also being digitized so that patient information is easily available in hospitals. These measures aim to improve health facilities and provide timely treatment to patients.
Alongside this positive news, some serious problems also exist. Following reports of an HIV outbreak in a Karachi hospital, the court has sought a response from the relevant authorities. Additionally, HIV patients face severe difficulties in obtaining medication during monsoon rains and floods. Tuberculosis (TB) is also a major threat in Pakistan, where approximately 140 people die daily due to this disease.
Pakistan is also working with international organizations to resolve health issues. Pakistan and Indonesia have agreed to increase cooperation in vaccine production. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of lives are being saved in Pakistan through the use of vaccines. Furthermore, to cope with rising heat, experts are suggesting inexpensive ways to keep homes cool, which can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 6 degrees.
Experts state that Pakistan spends less than 3% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on health, which is much lower than the global average. To fully improve the country's health system, there is an urgent need for a budget increase and the use of modern technology so that affordable and quality medical facilities can be made available to every citizen.