The Government of Pakistan today declared its clear goal to ensure no citizen is pushed into poverty due to healthcare expenses, as part of a significant strategic shift in the nation’s public health policy.
The announcement came in a message from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif commemorating World Health Day, where he renewed the nation”s pledge to build a healthier country for all citizens.
In his statement, the prime minister outlined a fundamental transformation of the healthcare apparatus, moving from a model focused solely on treatment to one that emphasises disease prevention and health promotion. This new approach positions Primary Health Care as the cornerstone for achieving Universal Health Coverage.
Highlighting this year’s theme, ‘Together for Health-Stand with Science,’ Sharif stressed that scientific advancements must be translated into effective policies and services to protect public and environmental well-being.
To implement this vision, the administration is expanding its Essential Package of Health Services (EPHS) at the district level through the National Health Support Programme, making Pakistan one of the early adopters to cost these services nationally and provincially.
Technology will be a central element of the forthcoming National Health and Population Policy (2026-2035). The prime minister confirmed efforts to strengthen integrated digital systems, such as the District Health Information System-2 (DHIS-2), telemedicine, and data platforms, to enhance service delivery and support evidence-based decision-making.
The government is also pursuing a multisectoral approach, recognising that quality healthcare requires addressing critical determinants like population growth, nutrition, and access to clean water and sanitation.
To support this structural change, the administration is working to reinforce health financing, improve expenditure tracking, and broaden financial protection measures, including insurance coverage for the populace.
Sharif concluded by affirming that federal and provincial governments, alongside development partners, the private sector, and academic institutions, have collectively renewed their commitment to building a more resilient Pakistan through innovation and collaboration.