- Aid cuts impact health services in Pakistan.
- Health workers face challenges due to reduced funding.
- Public health outcomes are at risk
Fragile Health System
Pakistan’s public health system is already strained, with limited resources and a reliance on international aid.
The country spends only 0.9% of its GDP on public health, far below the WHO’s 5pc benchmark for universal health coverage.
Aid Cuts
International donors have reduced their funding for healthcare programs in Pakistan, leaving health workers to cope with the consequences.
The cuts are having a devastating impact on health services, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is already limited.
Impact on Health Services
Health workers are struggling to provide essential services due to reduced funding.
Many clinics have had to raise fees to cover costs, and some have even closed due to lack of funding.
Risk of Disease Outbreaks
The cuts are also increasing the risk of disease outbreaks, particularly in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.
The WHO has warned that the situation could worsen unless immediate action is taken to address the funding gap.
Preventative healthcare has not been given its due importance here.
Dr. Ilyas Gondal, Former director general of health in Punjab
Source: Original report