Revival of Sehat Sahulat Card in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Access to 1,800 Free Treatments at 118 Hospitals in 2024

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has recently reinstated the Sehat Sahulat Card, bringing much-needed relief to the residents of the province. This card, which grants eligible individuals access to free medical treatments, was on the brink of discontinuation due to outstanding dues. Fortunately, the government has successfully resolved the issue, ensuring the seamless operation of the card. Eligible individuals can now benefit from 1,800 different medical treatments across 118 hospitals in the province.

Reintroduction of Sehat Card in KP

Earlier this year, the KP government announced the resumption of Sehat Insaf Card services after a temporary halt caused by financial constraints. Despite facing budgetary challenges, the interim government diligently worked to reinstate free healthcare services for the populace. Provincial health minister Syed Qasim Ali Shah shared this positive development during a press briefing.

The government settled Rs13 billion to the insurance company, with an outstanding balance of Rs18 billion. Despite the pending amount, the Sehat Card services are up and running, enabling individuals to avail themselves of free treatments once more. The government has committed to addressing the remaining dues promptly.

Availability of Free Treatments at 118 Hospitals

Under the revived Sehat Card scheme, the government has made 1,800 different treatments accessible at 118 public and private hospitals across KP. These hospitals offer a wide range of specialized medical procedures, including surgeries, emergency care, and treatments for critical illnesses. Dr. Riaz Tanoli, Chief Executive of the Sehat Sahulat Program, emphasized the program’s continuous support to the people of KP.

The government allocates approximately Rs3 billion per month to sustain the program and assist individuals in need of medical attention.

Reopening of Health Card Distribution Counters

Recognizing that many KP residents were unable to obtain their Sehat Cards during the distribution pause, the government has announced the reopening of health card counters in hospitals. These counters will facilitate the distribution of Sehat Sahulat Cards to eligible individuals who have not yet received them.

This decision follows the allocation of an additional Rs5 billion by the provincial government to support the insurance company, aiming to aid economically disadvantaged individuals in KP reliant on the Sehat Card for free healthcare.

List of Hospitals Participating in Sehat Card Program

The KP government has also published a list of 118 hospitals enrolled in the Sehat Card program. These hospitals, whether public or private, offer free treatments through the program. Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has assured the public of the program’s sustained growth and commitment to supporting more individuals in need of healthcare services.

The program is designed to be enduring and sustainable, ensuring consistent medical care for the residents of KP. The Health Minister affirmed the government’s efforts to rectify operational issues within the system, such as overbilling and irregularities, to ensure seamless functionality.

Enhancements to the Program and Continued Support

The Sehat Sahulat Card represents a long-term solution, with the government pledging to enhance the program and uphold the provision of free healthcare services to eligible beneficiaries. The Health Minister reiterated the government’s active efforts to enhance the program, preventing potential disruptions to free healthcare services in the future.

Key Enhancements Include:

• Addressing overbilling concerns
• Enhancing hospital services
• Expanding the program to more hospitals
• Ensuring punctual payments to the insurance company

In Conclusion

The reinstatement of the Sehat Sahulat Card in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa serves as a significant relief for numerous residents. With 1,800 free treatments available across 118 hospitals, the program guarantees that eligible individuals, particularly those in need, can access essential medical care. Overcoming budgetary challenges, the government has reopened health card distribution counters within hospitals. This initiative demonstrates a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of KP’s populace in the long run.