A special event to mark the Universal Health Coverage Day was held here today. Speaking on the occasion, Coordinator to the Prime Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad said that the Government of Pakistan firmly believes that healthcare is a fundamental right of every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Our vision aligns with UHC principles: ensuring that everyone has access to essential health services without suffering financial hardship. UHC is not just a health priority—it is an investment in human capital and a driver of inclusive and sustainable development, he said We also launched new partnerships to enhance primary healthcare infrastructure in underserved regions, particularly in Balochistan and KP. Our commitment to equitable healthcare has strengthened, with significant achievements in maternal and child health services and the deployment of digital health solutions to improve efficiency and accessibility, he said. Coordinator to the Prime Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination said our government has placed health at the center of policymaking, recognizing that sustainable development is impossible without robust healthcare systems. Through strengthening public healthcare infrastructure, regulating private health services, and ensuring access to essential medicines, we affirm that the well-being of our people is not a choice but an obligation. Together, let us continue this journey toward a healthier, more equitable Pakistan, he said. Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad acknowledged the support of Development Partners and said that achieving Universal Health Coverage is a monumental task that no nation can accomplish alone. Pakistan's progress toward UHC has been significantly bolstered by the steadfast support of our international partners, whose contributions have been instrumental in driving change. Organizations like WHO, UNICEF, USAID, the Gates Foundation, and the World Bank have not only provided financial and technical assistance but have also shared invaluable expertise and best practices. Coordinator to the Prime Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination shared some of recent milestones in the context of UHC through collaboration with WHO and other partners includes implementation of PHC Oriented Model of Care in three districts, strengthening primary healthcare delivery systems and improving access to essential services. In the context of achieving universal health coverage, RMNCAH services play a critical role. Through 2024, several technical documents have been developed, with the support of WHO which will serve as tools to improve quality of reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health services. By addressing critical challenges, these guidelines emphasize a holistic approach, integrating preventive measures, access to quality care, and the empowerment of frontline health workers to provide lifesaving services. We have developed a comprehensive health financing strategy to address revenue generation, pooling, and strategic purchasing, ensuring efficient resource allocation, he said. In his concluding remarks, Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad said let us reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier, more equitable Pakistan. Join hands with the government, development partners, and communities to ensure that health truly becomes a right for all, not a privilege for a few. Advocate for increased investment in healthcare, support reforms to address inequities, and champion innovative solutions to improve access to essential services. Together, we can turn the promise of Universal Health Coverage into a reality, creating a future where every citizen can thrive without the burden of financial hardship. The time to act is now—because Health is on the Government, and we are all part of the journey toward a stronger, healthier nation, he said.
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