PM&DC and WHO Partner to Boost Primary Healthcare and Family Medicine in Pakistan

PM&DC and WHO Commit to Strengthening Primary Healthcare in Pakistan

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have reached an understanding to enhance primary healthcare services nationwide, with a strong emphasis on family medicine as the backbone of an equitable and accessible health system.

Focus on Family Medicine

During a meeting between PM&DC President Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj and WHO officials, reforms were discussed to improve healthcare delivery and expand community-based medical services. Dr. Taj highlighted that family medicine enables early diagnosis, preventive care, and continuity of treatment, making it essential for achieving universal health coverage.

Key Reforms Introduced

• Mandatory Family Medicine Departments: All medical colleges in Pakistan must now establish family medicine departments.
• Curriculum Integration: 75 teaching hours of family medicine have been added to the MBBS program to train future doctors in primary care.
• Outreach Centers: Medical institutions are required to set up three outreach centers to extend healthcare services to communities.
• House Job Rotation: A three-year optional rotation program has been introduced to give young doctors practical experience in primary healthcare settings.

Addressing Health Challenges

Family medicine is expected to play a vital role in tackling non-communicable diseases and mental health issues, which are increasingly burdening Pakistan’s healthcare system. Family physicians will serve as the first point of contact for patients, ensuring prevention, early detection, and long-term management of chronic illnesses.

WHO’s Support

WHO officials praised PM&DC’s initiatives, particularly the inclusion of family medicine in the MBBS curriculum and the establishment of outreach centers. They emphasized that these reforms will expand healthcare access in underserved communities and strengthen Pakistan’s medical education system.

Moving Forward

Both PM&DC and WHO agreed to continue working together to improve primary healthcare, support reforms in medical education, and enhance community-focused healthcare delivery. These steps are expected to reduce pressure on tertiary hospitals and bring quality healthcare closer to the people of Pakistan.