ISLAMABAD – Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal officially inaugurated the fifth telemedicine center in Islamabad on Monday, marking a significant step in the government's ongoing initiative to expand digital healthcare services across the country. The center is located at the Basic Health Unit (BHU) Bhukkar, which is set to undergo phased upgrades from a primary to a secondary healthcare facility.
Enhancing Healthcare Access Through Technology
During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Mustafa Kamal emphasized that telemedicine is being actively promoted to alleviate patient pressure on traditional hospitals and improve access to basic medical care, especially in rural and underserved regions. He highlighted how digital technology enables patients to consult with doctors remotely, thereby reducing the necessity for physical visits for routine medical consultations.
The minister noted that approximately 5,000 doctors have been assigned nationwide to provide online consultations at digital health centers, operating between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm daily. This initiative also aims to engage female doctors who are not currently practicing by allowing them to offer medical services from the comfort of their homes.
Operational Details and Future Plans
Health officials present at the event stated that trained on-site staff will assist patients at the telemedicine centers, ensuring smooth operations. Services are planned to be gradually expanded to more basic health units in the future. In addition to clinical care, these centers are designed to support health awareness campaigns and disease prevention activities, creating a holistic approach to community health.
Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram, Co-founder and CEO of Sehat Kahani, addressed the gathering, stressing that the project's success hinges on wider public adoption of online consultations. She explained that BHU Bhukkar operates on Sehat Kahani's advanced digital health platform, which includes features such as video consultations, electronic medical records, digital prescriptions, and integrated pharmacy services. Nursing staff will manage patient operations on-site to ensure efficient service delivery.
Broader Health Initiatives
Minister Kamal also took the opportunity to highlight ongoing immunization programs, mentioning that vaccination services against thirteen diseases are being provided at the community level. He encouraged parents to ensure their children receive full immunization to protect against preventable illnesses.
This telemedicine initiative represents a key component of the government's strategy to modernize healthcare infrastructure and promote transparency in the health sector, aligning with broader digital reforms across federal departments.
