Experts Urge Tech-Driven Healthcare Reforms to Bridge Pakistan’s Rural-Urban Divide

Tech-Powered Healthcare Reforms Could Transform Pakistan’s Rural Health Landscape

At a recent webinar hosted by the Alliance for Good Governance Foundation, healthcare leaders and policy experts emphasized the urgent need for technology-driven reforms to address Pakistan’s healthcare disparities—particularly between rural and urban populations.

Innovation as a Healthcare Equalizer

The event, titled “Investment in Pakistan’s HealthTech, Pharma, and Hospitals: Challenges and Opportunities,” brought together a diverse panel of professionals who outlined how digital innovation can reshape healthcare delivery.

“Telemedicine is no longer optional—it is essential,” said Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, advocating for AI diagnostic centers and public-private partnerships to serve remote areas with limited medical personnel.

He also cautioned against the risks posed by Pakistan’s unregulated pharmaceutical sector, calling for tighter oversight.

Building a Digital Health Ecosystem

Dr. Sheraz Ahmed called for:

  • A national digital health record system
  • Data-driven policy frameworks
  • Legislation that evolves with innovation

These measures, he argued, are critical to integrating technology into healthcare sustainably and securely.

Women’s Health and Digital Inclusion

Husna Khattak spotlighted the need to prioritize rural women’s health through:

  • Mobile diagnostic units
  • Awareness campaigns
  • Digital literacy programs

“We cannot improve national health outcomes without focusing on women—especially those in villages and underserved communities,” she said.

Emerging Technologies Already Making Impact

Presenters Uneesa Saeed and Naba Mansoor showcased how:

  • Wearable health devices
  • Virtual consultations
  • Automated diagnostics
  • Blockchain-enabled pharma tracking

are already enhancing transparency and access in Pakistan’s healthcare system.

A Call for Inclusive, People-Centered Reform

Dr. Tariq Khan, Convenor of the Alliance, concluded the session by affirming that technology can be a powerful equalizer—but only if paired with inclusive policies.

“Healthcare must be accessible to all and not treated as a privilege,” he emphasized.

The webinar closed with a shared commitment to advocate for people-centered, tech-enabled healthcare reforms across Pakistan.

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