Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique announced on Saturday that the Punjab government would soon launch an improved version of the health card, aiming to enhance healthcare services across the province.
He made this announcement while addressing the fifth convocation of Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College (ASM&DC) in Bahria Town as a special guest on Saturday. In his address, Rafique highlighted the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, emphasising efforts to create convenience for the people of Punjab. He stressed that improving the health sector is the top priority for the Chief Minister, noting, “Today is a very important convocation day for fresh graduates. I have learned a lot about service to humanity from my teacher Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.” He acknowledged the contributions of Pakistani doctors worldwide and underscored the importance of merit in the health sector, mentioning the recent merit-based appointment of Medical Superintendents (MS) in 24 hospitals. “Our beloved country Pakistan cannot run without merit,” he asserted. Addressing the need for accountability, he stated, “Elements causing disrespect are being identified and dismissed from the health department. All Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centers (RHCs) are going to be revamped.” He encouraged the new graduates to excel not only as doctors but also as compassionate human beings. College chairman Dr. Farooq Saeed Khan welcomed the guests and noted the colleges dedication to merit, congratulating the 150 fresh graduates and acknowledging the efforts of their parents and teachers. He also highlighted the approval of fourteen fellowships at the hospital. ASM&DC Principal Prof. Nadeem Hafeez Butt presented a bouquet to Khawaja Salman Rafique, who later distributed medals and certificates of appreciation among the top students. Faculty members, a large number of students and their parents attended the convocation.
Punjab Health Minister, addressing the representatives of drug distributors, he emphasized that those responsible for the scarcity of essential drugs will be strictly dealt with. During the meeting, the minister called on drug distributors to collaborate with the government in identifying and exposing individuals involved in hoarding and causing shortages of vital medications. He announced the development of a Distributors Inventory Management System (DMIS), designed to ensure transparency and an uninterrupted supply of medicines. He highlighted that access to medicines is a fundamental right of citizens and assured that the government would consider the distributors demands with empathy. Drug distributors expressed concerns regarding the DMIS.
