The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Government has Expanded its Sehat Card Scheme

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has expanded its Sehat Card Scheme, adding more hospitals to its panel of public and private healthcare providers. This development is a significant step in providing free medical care to eligible individuals, especially those residing in remote and underserved regions. KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has emphasized improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency through this expansion and the introduction of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

Introduction to the KP Sehat Card Scheme

The Sehat Insaf Card initiative provides inpatient medical services to KP residents, ensuring free medical care and medication for eligible individuals. Currently, over 7.2 million families benefit from this program, with an annual budget of approximately Rs. 18 billion. The recent expansion underlines the government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and access.

Recent Additions to the Hospital Panel

On November 11, 2024, the KP government finalized the inclusion of additional hospitals into the Sehat Card Scheme. These hospitals, both public and private, were selected based on their adherence to quality standards. This move ensures more comprehensive healthcare services across the province, enabling beneficiaries to access free medical care closer to their homes.

Key Participants in the Policy Board Meeting

• Ehtisham Ali: Chief Minister’s Health Advisor
• Ikramullah Khan: Chief Secretary
• Syed Adeel Shah: Health Secretary
• Officials from Sehat Card Plus and KP Health Foundation

Focus on Healthcare Access in Remote Areas

The KP government is prioritizing rural healthcare by expanding Sehat Card clinics and outsourcing hospitals in outlying districts. This initiative aims to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare to underprivileged communities.

Key Actions Taken:

• Development of new healthcare centers in remote areas
• Outsourcing of underperforming hospitals to ensure better management and service delivery
• Streamlining hospital operations through revised legal frameworks

Financial Provisions and Debt Settlements

To address financial challenges, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has instructed the finance department to expedite the settlement of outstanding debts owed to public hospitals. This measure ensures uninterrupted healthcare services for beneficiaries.

Outsourcing Hospitals Through PPP

The KP government has decided to outsource more hospitals under the Sehat Card Scheme through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Proposals for this initiative are set to be submitted by December 2024.

Benefits of PPP Outsourcing:

• Improved efficiency in healthcare services
• Enhanced accessibility for remote communities
• Upgraded infrastructure and resources in outsourced hospitals

Free Medicine for Children with Hemophilia

In collaboration with Roche Pharmaceuticals, the KP government will provide free medication to children suffering from hemophilia. This partnership highlights the government’s dedication to addressing specific health challenges and ensuring equitable healthcare.

KP Government Allocates Rs. 4 Billion for Expansion

To further strengthen the Sehat Card Program, the KP government has allocated an additional Rs. 4 billion. This funding will enable the inclusion of more hospitals, enhance healthcare resources, and improve service delivery across the province.

Conclusion

The KP Sehat Card Scheme’s expansion marks a transformative phase in the province’s healthcare landscape. By incorporating more hospitals, especially in remote areas, and leveraging PPP models, the government aims to provide comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality healthcare services to all eligible residents. The allocation of additional funds and initiatives like free medication for hemophilia patients further underscore the government’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of its citizens.