Quetta: Provincial Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar highlighted the crucial need for increased public awareness and robust vaccination campaigns to combat polio in Balochistan, emphasizing the region’s struggle despite significant investment and efforts. Speaking at a one-day seminar titled “Pakistan Polio Eradication Program: Strengthening the Fight Against Polio,” organized by the Health Department, Kakar detailed the ongoing challenges and the measures needed to eradicate the disease in the province.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Balochistan, Minister Kakar expressed concern over the persistence of polio in Balochistan, noting that even less developed countries have successfully eradicated the virus. Despite the extensive funds allocated by the provincial, federal, and international bodies aimed at eliminating polio, new cases continue to emerge annually in the region.
In his address, Kakar urged District Health Officers (DHOs) to improve health data management and hospital performance through the completion of a health department digitization project. This initiative will store every patient’s record and treatment details in digital form, enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of the health system.
The seminar, which also featured Secretary Health Balochistan Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Panizai and EOC Balochistan Coordinator Inamul Haq Qureshi, among others, focused on strengthening strategies against polio. Kakar announced plans for establishing an independent monitoring system to oversee hospital performance rigorously, aiming to halt any negligence immediately.
Furthermore, the Health Minister addressed the distressing trend of residents seeking better medical treatments outside the province. He committed to significant improvements in the local health infrastructure to ensure quality, timely medical care within Balochistan, thereby restoring public confidence in the regional health services permanently.