In a monumental stride towards healthcare accessibility, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Sehat Card Plus program has marked a significant achievement, treating over 8000 individuals as of the fifth of Ramazan. Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Health Minister Qasim Ali Shah, this initiative not only extends critical medical treatment but also showcases adept management of healthcare expenditures, exceeding Rs172 million. Let’s delve into the profound impact and mechanisms of this groundbreaking scheme.
Overview of Sehat Card Plus Program: The Sehat Card Plus program endeavors to furnish free and standardized healthcare access to the populace of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Envisioned under Sustainable Development Goal Number 3 and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Policy 2018, this initiative places the onus on the government for the healthcare of its citizens. Presently, over ten million families in the province are eligible beneficiaries of the Sehat Card Plus.
Key Highlights of Sehat Sahulat March Scheme: Let’s illuminate some key highlights of the Sehat Sahulat March Scheme:
- Treatment of Over 8000 Individuals: Since its inception until March 16, over 8000 individuals have availed treatment in various hospitals under the Sehat Card Plus Program.
- Expenditures Exceeding Rs172 Million: The expenses incurred in delivering healthcare services have surpassed Rs172 million, underscoring a substantial investment and commitment towards citizens’ well-being.
- Proportional Expenditures in Public and Private Hospitals: Following reforms in July 2023, expenses in both public and private hospitals covered by the Sehat card remained proportional, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services.
- Focus on Critical Medical Conditions: Predominantly, the highest expenditures on the Sehat Card have been for heart diseases, C-sections, and chemotherapy, reflecting the program’s emphasis on addressing critical medical conditions effectively.
- Enhancements for Better Healthcare Access: Continuous considerations for additional enhancements to the project highlight the commitment to continually improve and expand healthcare services, ensuring comprehensive coverage for the populace.
- High Patient Satisfaction: Third-party evaluations indicate that 97 per cent of patients express satisfaction with the Sehat Card program, affirming its effectiveness in meeting the healthcare needs of the population.
Health Minister Qasim Ali Shah chaired a review meeting with key stakeholders, including Sehat Card Plus CEO Dr Riaz Tanoli, DG Health Dr Shaukat Ali, and others. The meeting reiterated the importance of the Sehat Card project in fulfilling healthcare obligations and explored avenues for further improvements.
Eligibility Criteria for Sehat Card Plus Program: Presently, more than ten million families in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are eligible for the Sehat Card Plus program.
Coverage Limits under Sehat Card Plus Program: Free secondary care treatment is provided up to Rs0.2 million, while tertiary care treatment has a limit of Rs0.4 million per family.
Annual Cost of Sehat Card Plus Program: The Sehat Card Plus program incurs an annual cost of Rs29.40 billion, covering various diseases and ensuring comprehensive healthcare access.
Conclusion: The Sehat Sahulat March Scheme shines as a beacon of hope for the people of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, offering accessible and quality healthcare services. With over 8000 patients treated and expenditures exceeding Rs172 million, this initiative exemplifies the government’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. As efforts continue to enhance and expand the program, the future holds promise for improved healthcare access and outcomes across the province.