The Provincial Minister for Health, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khaliq-ur-Rehman, visited the Emergency Satellite Hospital Nahaqi, Peshawar, where he laid the cornerstone of the Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) Unit and a warehouse. The visit reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening maternal and neonatal healthcare services at the secondary level.
The former MPA Arbab Jehandad Khan, HCIP Project Director Dr. Bilal, the Hospital Director, and other concerned officials were also present on the occasion. The establishment of the CEmONC facility will significantly strengthen the gynecology department by providing complete operation theatre facilities, essential medicines, and well-equipped wards for mothers and newborns. This initiative will help reduce emergency referrals to major tertiary care hospitals in Peshawar and ensure timely care at the local level.
During the visit, the Provincial Minister inspected various units of the hospital, including the OPD, Emergency, Medicine Units, and inpatient wards. He issued clear directives to the Hospital Director to ensure the availability and punctual attendance of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. He also emphasized maintaining cleanliness and a hygienic environment across the hospital, stating that negligence in service delivery would not be tolerated as this is the only major healthcare facility catering to the local population.
The Minister stated that the Health Department is actively pursuing its reform agenda, under which the required number of doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, and essential medical equipment will be ensured in public sector hospitals. He further added that the Provincial Government is serious about revamping and equipping primary and secondary healthcare units across all districts to reduce the burden on tertiary care hospitals and provide quality healthcare services at the doorstep of the people.
The Provincial Minister informed that the Health Department is also finalizing a new comprehensive health policy aimed at addressing existing challenges in the healthcare system. He directed doctors and local representatives to refrain from political interference in hospital affairs, emphasizing that hospitals are meant to serve humanity without discrimination on the basis of political affiliation or background.
The Minister further directed the Hospital Director to strictly ensure attendance of all staff members, warning that absenteeism would invite strict disciplinary action. He expressed confidence that, with collective efforts and sincere implementation of reforms, positive and visible improvements in healthcare services across the province will be witnessed soon.