Table of Contents
Introduction
Health Card Program in Punjab. introduced to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to the residents of Punjab, Pakistan, has undergone significant transformations since its inception. As of 2025, the program continues to be a cornerstone of the province’s healthcare system, aiming to offer comprehensive medical coverage to its beneficiaries. However, recent developments have highlighted both the program’s successes and the challenges it faces.
Overview of the Punjab Health Card Program
Health Card Program in Punjab , also known as the “Naya Pakistan Sehat Card,” was designed to ensure that every family in the province has access to quality healthcare without the burden of exorbitant costs. The program offers two primary tiers of coverage:
1.Secondary Care: This tier provides annual coverage of up to PKR 60,000 per family for hospital admissions requiring inpatient care. It encompasses treatments necessitating hospitalization, maternal health services, and emergency care resulting from accidents.
2. Priority Care: Under this tier, families receive annual coverage of up to PKR 400,000 for more severe and chronic conditions. This includes treatments for cardiovascular diseases, complications arising from diabetes, cancer treatments, organ failure management, and more. In exceptional cases, the coverage can be extended up to PKR 1,000,000 per family per year.
Recent Developments and Challenges.
Suspension of Services at Sheikh Zayed Hospital.
In September 2024, a significant development occurred when Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Lahore announced the suspension of free medical services for Punjab Health Card holders. Health Card Program in Punjab. The hospital ceased the distribution of free medicines and closed its health card office, citing administrative challenges and financial constraints as the primary reasons. This decision compelled patients to procure medications from private pharmacies, thereby increasing their out-of-pocket expenses.
Financial Implications of Underutilization.
Health Card Program in Punjab. The Punjab government has faced substantial financial losses due to the underutilization of health cards in government hospitals. Data from December 2023 revealed that out of over 96,000 patients admitted to hospitals, only 27,000 utilized the health card for their treatment. This underutilization led the government to cover treatment costs for the remaining 71% of patients, resulting in a significant financial burden. The trend continued into early 2024, with health card admissions decreasing by an additional 2% in February.
Policy Revisions to Curb Misuse.
Health Card Program in Punjab. In response to concerns about the misuse of the health card system, the caretaker Punjab government implemented policy changes in July 2023. The new regulations stipulated that individuals who travel abroad or have electricity bills of PKR 8,000 or more would no longer be eligible for free treatment under the health card. This measure aimed to conserve resources and ensure that the benefits reach the most deserving segments of the population.
Impact on Patients and Healthcare Providers
Patients’ Perspective
Health Card Program in Punjab. The suspension of services at prominent hospitals like Sheikh Zayed has adversely affected patients who rely on the health card for affordable healthcare. Many individuals, especially those from low-income backgrounds, now face increased medical expenses, leading to potential delays in seeking necessary treatments. The financial strain exacerbates their vulnerability, potentially resulting in deteriorating health outcomes.
Healthcare Providers’ Challenges
Hospitals participating in the Punjab Health Card program have reported financial and administrative challenges. Health Card Program in Punjab. The delayed reimbursements and insufficient funding have strained hospital resources, affecting their ability to provide uninterrupted services to health card beneficiaries. These challenges underscore the need for a sustainable financial model to support the program’s objectives.
Steps Towards Improvement
Enhancing Utilization Rates
Health Card Program in Punjab. To address the issue of underutilization, the Punjab Health Company has directed hospitals to promote the use of health cards actively. Efforts include increasing awareness among patients about the benefits and coverage of the health card, as well as streamlining administrative processes to facilitate easier access to services.
Strengthening Financial Management.
Ensuring timely reimbursements and adequate funding is crucial for the program’s sustainability. The government is exploring partnerships with insurance companies and financial institutions to create a more robust financial framework. Additionally, regular audits and monitoring can help in identifying and addressing financial bottlenecks promptly.
Policy Reforms.
Health Card Program in Punjab. Revisiting eligibility criteria and implementing stricter monitoring mechanisms can help curb misuse of the health card. By targeting resources towards the most vulnerable populations, the program can achieve its goal of providing equitable healthcare access. Engaging stakeholders, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and the community, is essential in formulating policies that are both effective and inclusive.
Conclusion
Health Card Program in Punjab stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to universal healthcare. While significant strides have been made in providing medical coverage to millions, recent challenges highlight the need for continuous evaluation and adaptation. By addressing financial constraints, enhancing utilization, and implementing prudent policy reforms, the program can overcome its current hurdles and continue to serve as a lifeline for the people of Punjab.