Lahore: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, articulated the critical role of healthcare in Pakistan’s economic development during a convocation ceremony at the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP). He emphasized the need for a healthy population alongside skilled medical professionals to drive the nation’s economic transformation.
According to Press Information Department, Iqbal addressed graduating medical specialists, urging them to uphold ethical practices and engage in continuous learning. He underscored the importance of combining clinical excellence with compassion, stressing that preventable illnesses hinder economic competitiveness. The minister highlighted the challenges Pakistan faces in maternal and child health, nutrition, and infectious diseases, urging specialists to focus on prevention and early diagnosis while contributing to public policy.
Iqbal discussed the impact of technological advancements in medicine, such as artificial intelligence and telemedicine, encouraging collaboration with academic and technology institutions to devise cost-effective healthcare solutions. He called on graduates to maintain patient confidentiality and dignity, drawing parallels to Islamic teachings on the sanctity of life.
The minister recalled the ethical conduct of two Parsi doctors who safeguarded the confidentiality of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s health, presenting it as a timeless lesson in professional ethics. He also addressed the need for combating medical misinformation and promoting evidence-based communication to bolster national confidence.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s economic recovery and international peacebuilding recognition, Iqbal emphasized the importance of building stronger institutions and professional excellence. He encouraged graduates to enhance patient safety, mentor peers, and contribute to Pakistan’s development, expressing optimism for lasting partnerships with visiting foreign medical institutions in training and research.