Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken a groundbreaking step towards accessible healthcare by announcing a free bone marrow transplant card for patients in the province. This initiative aims to provide life-saving treatment to children battling blood disorders and cancer, ensuring that no family is burdened by financial constraints.
A Milestone in Healthcare: 150 Successful Transplants at Children’s Hospital Lahore
Under this initiative, 150 successful bone marrow transplants have already been performed at Children’s Hospital Lahore, the first public-sector hospital in Pakistan to offer this complex procedure. The Punjab government is covering over Rs4.2 million per transplant, providing completely free treatment to children in need.
Expanding Treatment Beyond Punjab
Children’s Hospital Lahore is setting new benchmarks in healthcare with a success rate exceeding 89%, aligning with international standards. The hospital has not only treated children from Punjab but has also extended its services to patients from Sindh, Balochistan, and other provinces. Additionally, Afghan children requiring bone marrow transplants have received free treatment in Lahore, showcasing Pakistan’s commitment to medical assistance beyond its borders.
A Vision for a Healthier Future
Dr. Masood Sadiq, Vice Chancellor of the University of Child Health Sciences, emphasized that no child should be denied treatment due to financial difficulties. The Punjab government also provides free post-operative medication, ensuring that patients receive proper care even after their transplant. Each patient undergoes follow-up check-ups every 15 days, maintaining long-term health outcomes.
Maryam Nawaz: “Every Child is Precious”
Speaking on the initiative, CM Maryam Nawaz expressed her deep commitment to children’s healthcare, stating:
“Every child is more precious to me than my own. Free treatment is the right of every patient, and the state will fulfill its duty.”
She further assured that the bone marrow transplant card would remove financial burdens from families, guaranteeing that no compromises are made on children’s health. “We will allocate all necessary resources to ensure every child receives the treatment they deserve,” she affirmed.
A Revolutionary Step in Public Healthcare
This initiative reflects a major advancement in Pakistan’s healthcare sector, ensuring that even the most expensive medical treatments become accessible to all. With the Punjab government’s continued investment in medical advancements, the future looks promising for children suffering from critical illnesses.