Lahore: The Board of Directors of the Punjab Health Initiative Management Company convened its 118th meeting, chaired by Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique, to discuss ongoing health projects and approve significant budgetary allocations. The meeting highlighted the provision of free treatment facilities worth over Rs. 18.5 billion to patients under various special health programs, showcasing the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility in the region.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the board discussed the approval of project documents for the Chief Minister’s Health Initiatives and the addition of peritoneal dialysis to the Chief Minister’s Dialysis Program. The board approved the services of an event management firm and the annual procurement plan for the financial year 27-2026. Financial approvals included the accounts for the second and third quarters of the same fiscal year.

Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique emphasized the historic steps being taken in the health sector, including the provision of free cardiac surgery, cancer treatment, and dialysis services. Under various initiatives, over 14,415 children have received heart surgeries, and more than 2.16 million patients have received free dialysis treatments. The Chief Minister’s Special Initiative for Transplant Program has facilitated 2,409 transplants, including renal, cochlear, liver, bone marrow, and corneal procedures.

Secretary of the Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department, Azmat Mahmood, stressed the importance of maximizing patient facilities in empaneled hospitals and resolving patient issues promptly. The meeting underscored the government’s dedication to leveraging all available resources to deliver optimal healthcare services to the people of Punjab.