Strengthening Access to Quality Medicines and Medical Devices in Pakistan

Access to quality medicines and medical devices is a cornerstone of a resilient healthcare system. In Pakistan, this critical area has long faced challenges ranging from regulatory inefficiencies to limited availability of essential drugs. However, recent initiatives signal a transformative shift toward ensuring safe, effective, and affordable healthcare solutions for all.

Regulatory Reforms and Digital Transformation

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has launched a groundbreaking digital system for licensing and registration of medical devices. This innovation drastically reduces processing time—from years to just 20 days—eliminating bureaucratic delays and enhancing transparency. The system allows applicants to submit requests online, streamlining access to vital equipment like MRI machines, wheelchairs, and diagnostic tools.

Ensuring Medicine Quality and Safety

Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector, with over 550 companies and 60,000 registered brands, is rapidly expanding. Yet, concerns about substandard and counterfeit drugs persist. To combat this, DRAP has intensified efforts to enforce WHO Good Manufacturing Practices and ICH guidelines. Accredited laboratories now play a pivotal role in testing and certifying drug quality, ensuring that only safe and effective medicines reach the public.

Bridging the Access Gap

Despite progress, access to essential medicines remains uneven. Many households bear high out-of-pocket expenses, and availability of generic drugs in public facilities is alarmingly low. To address this, the government is revisiting procurement policies, shifting from price-based to quality-based selection. Public-private partnerships are also being leveraged to improve supply chains and expand coverage.

Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure

The government is investing in primary healthcare systems to reduce pressure on major hospitals. By integrating digital tools and enhancing accountability, Pakistan aims to deliver timely and equitable healthcare services. Training programs for pharmacists and healthcare professionals are being scaled up to meet international standards.

A Vision for Inclusive Healthcare

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need for a healthcare revolution—one that prioritizes quality, accessibility, and innovation. With coordinated efforts across ministries, regulatory bodies, and private stakeholders, Pakistan is poised to redefine its healthcare landscape.