In a significant development, the government has reinstated free medical treatment under the Sehat Card, providing a much-needed relief to millions of deserving citizens. This move aims to ensure access to quality healthcare for low-income families, fulfilling the promise of universal health coverage in Pakistan. This article delves into the key features of the Sehat Card, the reasons behind the restoration of free treatment, and how it benefits the people.
What is the Sehat Card?
The Sehat Card, officially known as the Sehat Sahulat Program, is a flagship healthcare initiative by the Government of Pakistan. It provides health insurance to underprivileged families, enabling them to avail cashless medical treatments in empaneled public and private hospitals.
Key highlights of the Sehat Card:
- Coverage of up to PKR 1,000,000 annually per family.
- Services include surgeries, maternity care, emergency treatments, and cancer management.
- No upfront payments; treatment is cashless.
- Available for citizens of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Restoration of Free Treatment
The free treatment facility under the Sehat Card had faced suspension earlier this year due to budgetary constraints and mismanagement. However, in November 2024, the government announced the restoration of these services to provide uninterrupted healthcare to the masses.
Reasons for Suspension
- Funding Issues: Delayed allocation of resources affected hospital reimbursements.
- Administrative Challenges: Hospitals reported payment delays, reducing their willingness to accept Sehat Card patients.
- Overutilization: Some hospitals experienced overwhelming demand, exhausting allocated funds.
Key Improvements with Restoration
The restoration comes with improved policies:
- Timely Payments: The government has introduced a streamlined reimbursement system for hospitals.
- Increased Budget: An additional PKR 20 billion has been allocated to the program.
- Expanded Network: More hospitals have been empaneled to provide services without overburdening existing facilities.
Benefits of Free Treatment Under Sehat Card
The reinstatement of free treatment brings immense relief to millions of families who cannot afford healthcare expenses. Below are the primary benefits:
1. Accessibility to Quality Healthcare
Families no longer need to rely on out-of-pocket expenses for critical treatments, ensuring access to quality healthcare facilities.
2. Financial Relief
By covering costly procedures such as dialysis, cardiac surgeries, and cancer treatments, the Sehat Card reduces the financial burden on low-income households.
3. Improved Health Outcomes
With free healthcare restored, preventive and curative treatments are now accessible, leading to better overall health outcomes in the population.
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Services Covered Under the Sehat Card
The following table highlights the major services available through the Sehat Card:
| Category | Covered Services | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitalization | General surgeries, ICU care, post-operative recovery | Includes elective and emergency procedures |
| Maternal Health | Normal delivery, C-section, neonatal care | Coverage for both mother and newborn |
| Chronic Diseases | Dialysis, diabetes care, cancer treatment | Includes medications and therapies |
| Specialized Care | Cardiovascular surgeries, organ transplants | Lifesaving and long-term treatments |
| Emergency Care | Accidental injuries, fractures, burns | Immediate and follow-up treatments |
How to Avail Free Treatment
To benefit from the Sehat Card, eligible individuals must follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility: Verify your eligibility by sending your CNIC number to 8500.
- Visit an Empaneled Hospital: Locate the nearest hospital accepting Sehat Cards through the official Sehat Sahulat Program website or helpline.
- Avail Treatment: Present your CNIC and Sehat Card at the hospital’s registration desk for cashless treatment.
Conclusion
The restoration of free treatment under the Sehat Card is a monumental step towards achieving universal healthcare in Pakistan. By addressing the challenges that hindered its continuity, the government has renewed its commitment to providing quality healthcare to the masses. This initiative not only alleviates the financial burden on vulnerable families but also paves the way for healthier and more productive communities.
As the program regains momentum, the public is encouraged to utilize this invaluable resource responsibly. Ensuring its long-term sustainability will require continued government support, proper fund allocation, and active participation from all stakeholders.
