Key Takeaways
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet approves Health Policy 2026.
- Outpatient Department services and school health services expanded under Sehat Card programme.
- New ICUs, CCUs, and burn centers to be established across the province.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet has approved a comprehensive Health Policy 2026, aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the province. This policy includes several key initiatives that will significantly impact the health landscape of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
One of the primary features of the new policy is the expansion of Outpatient Department (OPD) services under the Sehat Card programme. This move is expected to provide more people with access to subsidized healthcare, thereby improving overall public health outcomes in the region.
Additionally, the government has approved the launch of school health services, which will focus on preventive care and early diagnosis among students. These initiatives are designed to promote a healthier lifestyle from an early age and ensure that children receive timely medical attention when needed.
The policy places significant emphasis on digital transformation in healthcare. Plans include introducing advanced technology, expanding digital monitoring systems, and fully activating the Healthcare Commission. Basic health units, maternal and child healthcare services, and the Lady Health Workers programme will also see increased support under this new framework.
To strengthen emergency and specialized care, the provincial government has approved the establishment of Intensive Care Units (ICUs), Critical Care Units (CCUs), and burn centers across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These facilities are crucial for providing timely treatment to critically ill patients and ensuring that local communities have access to advanced medical services.
The policy also promotes telemedicine, palliative care, and geriatric medicine. It introduces measures to address shortages of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff by implementing training programs and recruitment drives. These efforts are expected to improve the overall quality of healthcare delivery in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In a related development, the cabinet approved the Occupational Safety and Health Rules 2026. This regulation requires institutions with 50 or more employees to appoint safety and health officers and implement workplace safety measures, including emergency response training and first aid facilities. These steps are aimed at creating safer working environments for employees across various sectors.
Furthermore, the policy includes plans to expand Sifat Ghayoor Shaheed Memorial Hospital to enhance healthcare services for local communities. This expansion is expected to provide better access to quality medical care in rural areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
