ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal on Tuesday acknowledged the World Health Organization (WHO) for providing vehicles to support Pakistan’s health system, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Speaking at a ceremony, the minister said the government’s vision extends beyond building hospitals or providing treatment.
“Our real mission is to prevent illness through effective strategies,” he said. He noted that the vehicles supplied by WHO will be used in immunization drives and other essential health activities, ensuring services reach far-flung regions.
Highlighting challenges faced by the healthcare system, Mustafa Kamal cited the Covid-19 pandemic as a reminder of how large-scale outbreaks can overwhelm health infrastructure, even in advanced countries. He added that with approximately 6.2 million children born annually in Pakistan, the current healthcare ecosystem from birth to adulthood remains inadequate. Poor water, sanitation, and climate-related issues have further increased disease burdens, causing a surge of patients at major hospitals.
The minister stressed the need for a shift from a “sick care” model to a robust healthcare system focused on disease prevention at street, neighborhood, and rural levels. He highlighted ongoing efforts, including the provision of free vaccines against 13 deadly diseases, and urged the public to ensure timely immunization. He reaffirmed that the polio eradication campaign will continue until the virus is completely eliminated.
Other speakers at the event emphasized population control, improved sanitation, and emergency-based preventive measures to reduce disease outbreaks. Strengthening basic health units, they said, could alleviate pressure on larger hospitals and improve overall service delivery.
The ceremony concluded with appreciation for the WHO’s support and a commitment from the government to modernize Pakistan’s health system and provide quality medical care to all citizens.
