LET’S try to understand and review the challenges hindering the development of a prosperous and robust Pakistan and calls for a closer examination of these barriers to pave the way for a brighter future. Efforts made since gaining independence in 1947 to establish a strong healthcare system through five-year plans are acknowledged, with a shift towards primary healthcare, community participation and health education. However, the healthcare system still faces obstacles like limited resources, inadequate infrastructure and a high disease burden. Ongoing reforms aim to improve health outcomes for all citizens.
Pakistan’s domestic crisis, including political instability, economic turmoil and social unrest, has significantly impacted public and health policies. The lack of financial resources, inadequate infrastructure and political instability will have led to substandard healthcare services and compromised health outcomes. Urgent comprehensive reforms, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, community engagement, periodic evaluation and evidence-based policymaking are advocated to address current public health challenges.
The rise of private healthcare delivery services is attributed to growing preferences for personalized, efficient and comfortable healthcare experiences. Private facilities offer a range of services, from primary care clinics to specialized hospitals, attracting individuals due to factors like increasing disposable income and a desire for quicker access to medical care. However, concerns remain regarding affordability, accessibility and equity in healthcare provision as the private sector continues to expand. It is only in the reach of those who can afford it. The poor have to face great challenges in seeking and attaining the health care services with its constrained resources, majority of the time he has to face out of pocket expenses and to bear the burden of loans.
Governmental policies in Pakistan significantly influence health-seeking behaviour and healthcare access. Positive policies prioritizing affordable, quality healthcare and improved infrastructure enhance collective wisdom in health-seeking behaviour. Conversely, negative policies like limited funding and neglect of preventive care erode trust in the healthcare system, deterring timely medical attention. Such policies exacerbate socio-economic disparities, creating barriers for marginalized populations to access healthcare. The more emphasis on evidence-based policies to promote collective wisdom and ensure equitable healthcare access are required. The development of health saviours and health renaissance zones to enhance community engagement, health education and promotion, ultimately improving quality-adjusted life years in Pakistan. These zones are envisioned to facilitate evidence-based approaches to foster community participation and improve overall health outcomes.
Policy makers and stakeholders need to understand the challenges faced by Pakistan’s healthcare system and the impact of domestic crises and private healthcare trends on public health policies. It stresses the importance of evidence-based policymaking, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and community engagement to achieve better health outcomes for the nation. The call for the establishment of health saviours and health renaissance zones aims to foster community participation and improve overall health and well-being in Pakistan. The Public & Private Partnership in this venture will be a better & positive solution to revive and sustain the health care delivery framework.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Rawalpindi.
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