ISLAMABAD: Minister for Health Abdul Qadir Patel has appreciated the humanitarian support provided by International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) over the years and reiterated the government’s commitment to provide universal health coverage to everyone in Pakistan.

Moreover, he emphasised the need to do more to facilitate persons with disabilities, encourage their social inclusion and enable a safer working environment for healthcare workers in the country.

The minister made these remarks during a meeting with the representatives of the ICRC in his office. Special Secretary Health Iftikhar Shallwant and Director General Health Dr Shabana Salem were also present, said a press release issued by the health ministry.

Headed by Jamal Khan, the ICRC representatives included Deputy Head of Delegation Dr Mirwais Khan and Head of Healthcare in Danger Initiative Imad Aldibee. Former executive director Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) Karachi Dr Seemin Jamali also accompanied them.

Delegation assures govt of support to strengthen federal and provincial laws for protection of healthcare

The representatives of the ICRC informed the minister about its humanitarian efforts in Pakistan with a focus on its physical rehabilitation programme as well as the need for increased protection of healthcare.

The delegation also offered its support to the government to strengthen federal and provincial laws for the protection of healthcare, facilitate capacity building of federal health institutions, and to improve the provision of physical rehabilitation services across the country.

The minister assured the ICRC’s delegation of support from the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination for its humanitarian activities.

Both the sides also decided to further pursue a strengthened partnership and joint activities for improving the health indicators in the country with a special focus on persons with disabilities.

The ICRC works with health authorities and partners in Pakistan to bolster the country’s healthcare sector through a range of initiatives, including strengthening the continuum of care, provision of physical rehabilitation services and facilitating community first medical aid training.

Sajid Shah, spokesperson for the ministry, told Dawn that the current government had included health in its priorities and was focusing on addressing issues of the people.

“Being a political figure, Mr Patel has been focusing on provision of free of cost health treatment to the citizens and that is why he wants to implement the Universal Health Programme,” he said.

Published in Dawn, June 27th, 2022