The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reaffirmed its support to Pakistan for strengthening primary healthcare in the country.
The assurance was given by Country Representative of WHO in Pakistan, Dr Palitha Mahipala while addressing a press conference on Friday.
Dr Palitha Mahipala said the WHO is providing support to the government of Pakistan for expansion of universal health coverage by investing in health systems. He also assured complete and unflinching support to the government in implementing its agenda to achieve the target of Universal Health Care by 2030.
He appreciated the government for the various steps taken to improve the health status of the population. He particularly mentioned the expansion in coverage of the Sehat Sahulat (Health Insurance) Programme, which will be instrumental in decreasing the financial burden on the poor and marginalized population and endorsement of the Universal Health Coverage Benefit Package.
He affirmed, “I am confident that these recommendations will facilitate the government in developing strategies and plans for strengthening the PHC services and securing sustainable financing to achieve the UHC and implementation of a recently endorsed UHC benefit package.”
“I am very sure and confident that with the current political commitment and UHC related program and interventions, Pakistan will achieve the targets of UHC by 2030 and WHO will support the government in every possible way towards this end,” he said.
Dr Palitha Mahipala said that Pakistani media has always stood for any national cause. “I expect and urge the media to play its vital role in raising public awareness and advocating with relevant stakeholders for it. I am thankful to all agencies for participating in this mission and admire the efforts of all mission members.”
Speaking on the occasion, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, Aida Girma said, “Adaptation of Universal Health Coverage Investment Case into Provincial Plans with focus on strengthening district health governance, Lady Health Workers Programme, and robust health information system will accelerate Primary Health Care for Universal Health Coverage in Pakistan.” She added the children and their mothers will benefit from essential health services including immunisation through comprehensive primary healthcare.
