Breaking News: Resumption of Free Healthcare Services through Sehat Card in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Great news for the residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P)! The State Life Insurance Company has reinstated free medical treatment under the Sehat Insaf Card program in the region. This decision comes following the assurance from the provincial government to clear outstanding dues totaling Rs. 6 billion by the upcoming Friday. The move to resume free healthcare services was prompted after the insurance company initially announced a suspension due to unpaid dues.
Govt’s Assurance Leads to Free Treatment Resumption
The K-P government’s commitment to settling Rs. 6 billion dues to the State Life Insurance Company facilitated the restoration of free healthcare services. Despite having paid Rs. 13 billion since March 2024, a dispute arose over the remaining Rs. 18 billion owed, leading to a temporary halt in services. The government had previously agreed to pay Rs. 5 billion, but delays in payment caused the interruption in free medical treatment.
Effective Measures to Address Outstanding Dues
To resolve the issue, a detailed meeting is scheduled between Muzammil Aslam, the Advisor to the Chief Minister on Finance, the Health Minister, and representatives from the insurance company. The objective is to find a viable solution to the unpaid dues predicament and ensure the uninterrupted operation of the program. With a promise from the provincial government to allocate Rs. 3 billion monthly, efforts are underway to sustain the program without disruptions.
Restoration of Health Card Services
In March 2024, after a temporary reduction during the interim government period, full-fledged Sehat Insaf Card services were restored by the provincial government. This reinstatement was a significant relief for many low-income families reliant on the Sehat Card for medical assistance. The latest resumption of free medical treatment reaffirms the government’s commitment to providing essential healthcare services to the people of K-P.
Overview of Sehat Insaf Card Services
Launched in 2015, the Sehat Insaf Card program initially covered four districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and expanded to encompass the entire province by 2020. Offering free treatment at 118 public and private hospitals for over 1,800 medical procedures, the initiative costs the provincial government an average of Rs. 3 billion per month, benefiting a vast population.
Government’s Pledge to Healthcare
The Sehat Insaf Card is more than just a temporary project; it signifies the government’s enduring commitment to healthcare. Under Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s leadership, further enhancements in healthcare services are anticipated. With an allocation of Rs. 5 billion to sustain the program and reopen health card counters at hospitals, the government is steadfast in its efforts to ensure transparent and efficient program operations.
Conclusion
The recent revival of free medical treatment through the Sehat Insaf Card brings relief to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. With the government’s pledge to clear dues amounting to Rs. 6 billion, essential healthcare services will continue uninterrupted. This initiative plays a vital role in providing access to necessary medical care without financial burden to millions of residents across the province.
FAQs
What is the Sehat Insaf Card?
The Sehat Insaf Card is a healthcare program in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that offers free medical treatment to eligible residents at designated public and private hospitals.
Why was free treatment initially suspended?
Free treatment was temporarily halted due to outstanding dues owed by the provincial government to the State Life Insurance Company. However, services resumed after the government committed to paying Rs. 6 billion.
How many hospitals provide free treatment under the Sehat Insaf Card?
The Sehat Insaf Card covers treatment at 118 hospitals throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including both public and private healthcare facilities.
Is the Sehat Insaf Card a permanent program?
Yes, the Sehat Insaf Card is a long-term initiative aimed at providing free healthcare to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The government is dedicated to sustaining the program for the foreseeable future.
