Provincial Minister for Health, Khaliq-ur-Rehman, attended a dinner as Chief Guest with patients affected by HIV at Serena Hotel, Peshawar. The event was arranged by the Integrated HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis and Thalassemia Control Program Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with the objective of raising awareness and expressing solidarity with patients suffering from these diseases. Former Director General Health, Shahid Younus, also graced the occasion with his presence, while Project Director Tariq Hayat welcomed the Health Minister and other guests.
The sole purpose of the dinner was to create awareness about HIV and allied diseases, highlight the challenges faced by patients, and convey a strong message of support and compassion from the government. During the event, the Health Minister interacted warmly with the patients and listened to their life stories and bitter experiences. Several patients shared the hardships they face during the treatment of HIV/AIDS and expressed deep concern over the stigma and discrimination they encounter both at hospitals and at the social level. They stated that despite being patients, they are often treated differently in society, which affects their dignity, mental health, and timely access to healthcare.
The patients requested the Health Minister to establish and enhance special units at hospitals and ensure better facilities for their extra care during medical treatment. They also stressed the need for a more patient-friendly environment and sensitization of healthcare staff to deal with them with respect and empathy.
While addressing the gathering, Mr. Khaliq-ur-Rehman assured the patients of the government’s full and unwavering support. He stated that the Health Department is fully committed to addressing the needs of HIV, hepatitis, and thalassemia patients and that a revised PC-I will be prepared to cover gaps and emerging needs in the coming years. He informed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has already increased the number of screening centers across the province and emphasized the importance of timely screening to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment. The Minister noted with concern that many people only realize the presence of HIV at its final stage due to the lack of timely screening, which complicates treatment.
The Health Minister urged the general public to actively avail screening facilities at the earliest to protect themselves and others, adding that early detection can save lives and significantly improve the quality of life of patients. He reiterated that no patient should feel isolated or stigmatized and that the government is determined to create an inclusive healthcare system for all.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Health Minister presented a shield to former Director General Mr. Shahid Younus in recognition of his valuable services to the health sector. A vote of thanks was also extended to all the participants, organizers, healthcare professionals, and patients for making the event meaningful and impactful.