The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) government has made a significant step in continuing its healthcare services by allocating Rs4.5 billion for the Sehat Insaf Card program in September. This financial support ensures that free medical treatment under this initiative remains available to citizens at both public and private hospitals across the province.
Sehat Insaf Card: A Lifeline for KPK Citizens
The Sehat Insaf Card, introduced in 2015, provides free medical treatment for the people of KPK. Initially launched in four districts, the program now covers the entire province, allowing over 7 million families to access free healthcare. This initiative, a flagship project of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, continues to play a vital role in improving the health of the people by offering treatment for 1,800 different medical conditions.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2015 |
| Coverage | Entire KPK province |
| Beneficiaries | Over 7 million families |
| Number of Treatments | 1,800 |
| Number of Hospitals | 118 public and private hospitals |
| Annual Expenditure | Rs18 billion |
| September Allocation | Rs4.5 billion |
Recent Developments: Rs4.5 Billion Allocated in September
The advisor to the KPK Chief Minister on Health, Ihtisham Ali, recently announced the allocation of Rs4.5 billion to the State Life Insurance Corporation to maintain the Sehat Insaf Card services. He dismissed rumors that free treatment was suspended at certain hospitals, ensuring that the card remains fully functional across all panel hospitals. The payment of outstanding dues is currently being made in phases to keep the program running smoothly.
Clarification on Suspension Rumors
Ihtisham Ali emphasized that there is no truth to the reports about the suspension of the Sehat Insaf Card in some hospitals due to unpaid dues. He reassured the public that the Sehat Card services would not be discontinued under his watch and clarified that while there are outstanding payments, they are being cleared gradually.
Continuous Service Despite Financial Challenges
Despite financial difficulties, the provincial government has ensured that payments are being made consistently to the insurance company. The KPK government paid Rs13 billion to the State Life Insurance Corporation since March, with an additional Rs5 billion still to be cleared. The government remains committed to paying Rs3 billion per month to continue offering free healthcare under the Sehat Insaf Card program.
Background of the Sehat Insaf Card Program
Earlier this year, the State Life Insurance Corporation temporarily suspended free treatment services under the Sehat Insaf Card due to unpaid dues. However, after negotiations with the government, services were restored following an assurance of Rs6 billion in payments within a week. The Health Card initiative, which initially began as a limited program, now offers free treatment across 118 public and private hospitals, benefiting millions of people in KPK.
- Launch Year: 2015
- Coverage: Entire KPK province since 2020
- Beneficiaries: Over 7 million families
- Medical Treatments: 1,800 different procedures
- Hospitals: 118 public and private hospitals
- Annual Expenditure: Rs18 billion
How much has the KPK government allocated for the Sehat Insaf Card in September?
The KPK government allocated Rs4.5 billion in September to ensure the continuation of free medical services under the Sehat Insaf Card.
Are there any suspensions of services under the Sehat Insaf Card?
No, there are no suspensions. The government has clarified that all hospitals on the Sehat Insaf Card panel are fully operational, and the payment of outstanding dues is being made in phases.
How many hospitals are covered under the Sehat Insaf Card program?
A total of 118 public and private hospitals across KPK are part of the Sehat Insaf Card program, offering free treatment for 1,800 medical conditions.
Conclusion
The KPK government’s allocation of Rs4.5 billion for the Sehat Insaf Card in September highlights its commitment to ensuring healthcare for its citizens. Despite financial challenges, the program continues to provide free medical services, benefiting millions of families across the province. The government’s efforts to clear outstanding dues and maintain the functionality of the Sehat Insaf Card demonstrate its dedication to improving the quality of life for the people of KPK.