Government Pledges to Build a Healthier Pakistan

Transforming Healthcare Through Prevention and Innovation

On World Health Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivered a powerful message reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to building a healthier nation. He emphasized that health is not only an individual priority but also a cornerstone of economic growth, national stability, and improved quality of life.

The Prime Minister highlighted this year’s theme, “Together for Health – Stand with Science,” noting that science must be translated into effective policies and services that safeguard people’s wellbeing and protect future generations.

Pakistan is steadily shifting its healthcare system from a treatment-based model to one centered on prevention and health promotion. Primary Health Care is being strengthened as the foundation for achieving Universal Health Coverage, ensuring that essential services reach every citizen.

A major step in this transformation is the adoption of the Essential Package of Health Services (EPHS) at both national and provincial levels. Through the National Health Support Program, the government is expanding EPHS implementation at the district level, guaranteeing access to vital healthcare services across the country.

Digital health is another cornerstone of reform. The forthcoming National Health and Population Policy (2026–2035) prioritizes telemedicine, integrated data platforms, and the District Health Information System-2 (DHIS-2) to improve transparency, service delivery, and evidence-based decision-making.

The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of addressing critical health determinants such as population growth, water and sanitation, and nutrition. A multi-sectoral approach is being pursued to tackle these challenges comprehensively.

Financial protection remains a key priority. The government is working to strengthen health financing, enhance expenditure tracking, and expand insurance coverage to ensure that no Pakistani is pushed into poverty due to healthcare expenses.

On this World Health Day, the Prime Minister called on federal and provincial governments, development partners, the private sector, and academic institutions to renew their collective commitment. Through collaboration and innovation, Pakistan aims to build a resilient, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system that secures the wellbeing of its people for generations to come.