Islamabad (HRNW): Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that the government should consider alternatives to directly running public hospitals, questioning what the government receives from managing them “apart from people’s curses.”
The federal minister said that the country’s total health budget stands at Rs1,556 billion, while approximately Rs210 billion could provide universal health coverage facilities to people across Pakistan.
Mustafa Kamal emphasized the need to improve the existing healthcare system and develop effective policies to ensure equal and easier access to medical services for citizens.
He said the government should examine how available resources can be used more effectively to provide timely, quality and accessible healthcare to every citizen, particularly vulnerable and low-income communities.
Human Rights Perspective
Equal access to healthcare is a fundamental human rights and public welfare concern. Whether healthcare is delivered through public hospitals or alternative systems, the government has a responsibility to ensure that citizens receive timely, affordable and quality medical care, especially those who cannot afford private treatment.
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Disclaimer
This report is based on remarks attributed to Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal. The budget figures and proposal regarding universal healthcare are presented as part of the minister’s stated position.
