KARACHI, Emphasizing the importance of digital platforms in healthcare, President Dr Arif Alvi has underscored the need for expanding tele-medicine and tele-healthcare services to cater to low-income regions of Pakistan. The President believes these digital platforms have the potential to improve the accessibility of health services, especially in remote locations, and can play a pivotal role in promoting preventive healthcare in the nation.
According to Press Information Department, President Alvi conveyed these sentiments while speaking at a ceremony titled “Spirit of Female Entrepreneurship and Medical Leadership of Female Doctors,” orchestrated by Sehat Kahani in Karachi. The event saw participation from key figures in the tele-healthcare sector, including Sehat Kahani’s CEO, Sara Saeed Khurram, COO and Co-founder Dr Iffat Zafar, along with other medical professionals specializing in tele-healthcare services.
During his address, President Alvi opined that nations fall behind due to the lack of proper education and health amenities. He accentuated the country’s need to pivot towards a preventive approach to healthcare rather than focusing solely on treatments. Highlighting a concerning figure, he shared that 28 million children in Pakistan are currently not attending school. Delving into societal challenges, he discussed the barriers women face when trying to actively participate in mainstream economic activities. He emphasized the pivotal role institutions play in forging pathways to empower and educate women.
Dr Arif Alvi commended Sehat Kahani’s efforts in carving out significant opportunities for female doctors, shedding light on their emphasis on tele-medicine and tele-healthcare services. Speaking on the broader topic of communication, he articulated its quintessential role in societal progress. He also noted the importance of starting health-related discussions within households, particularly concerning mental health. To address the growing concern of mental health issues, he mentioned the government’s introduction of a helpline named ‘Hamraaz,’ which was initiated during the tenure of the previous government.
The event culminated with President Alvi bestowing shields upon medical professionals from diverse specializations across Pakistan, recognizing their commitment and exceptional contributions to the medical field. Furthermore, Sehat Kahani’s CEO and co-founder, Dr Sara Saeed Khurram, celebrated the accomplishments of female entrepreneurship and medical leadership among female doctors, underscoring the foundational goals of Sehat Kahani. Dr Khurram highlighted that their digital healthcare platform not only bridges patients and doctors within Pakistan but also operates e-clinics nationwide, especially targeting underserved communities. She emphasized the platform’s multifaceted offerings which include individual consultations, corporate and mental health solutions, online diagnostics, and e-pharmacy.