The KP cabinet has approved the Health Policy 2026, introducing a wide range of reforms to improve healthcare services across the province. The new policy focuses on expanding access to medical treatment, strengthening health facilities, and improving healthcare through digital technology.
One of the most important decisions under the new policy is the expansion of Outpatient Department (OPD) services under the Sehat Card programme. This step will allow more patients to receive subsidized medical treatment without requiring hospital admission.
The KP government has also approved the launch of school health services. The initiative aims to improve preventive healthcare and help identify medical conditions among students at an early stage. Officials believe this will promote healthier school environments and reduce long-term health risks.
Digital transformation is another major part of the policy. The government plans to introduce advanced healthcare technologies and expand digital monitoring systems across the province. These measures are expected to improve service delivery and strengthen oversight of healthcare institutions.
The policy also includes the full activation of the Healthcare Commission. Officials say this will improve regulation and help ensure better healthcare standards in both public and private medical facilities.
Basic Health Units (BHUs) will receive additional support under the new plan. The government also intends to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services to improve access to quality treatment for women and children.
The Lady Health Workers programme will also receive greater attention. Additional support is expected to improve healthcare services in rural and underserved communities, where access to medical facilities remains limited.
To strengthen emergency and specialized treatment, the KP cabinet has approved the establishment of Intensive Care Units (ICUs), Critical Care Units (CCUs), and burn centers across the province. These facilities are expected to improve emergency response and specialized medical care.
The new policy also promotes telemedicine services. Patients living in remote areas will be able to consult healthcare professionals without traveling long distances. This is expected to improve access to medical care for people living far from major hospitals.
In addition, the government plans to expand palliative care and geriatric medicine. These services will support elderly patients and individuals with long-term or serious illnesses.
The policy also includes measures to address shortages of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. Officials hope these steps will strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve patient care across the province.
Along with the Health Policy 2026, the cabinet approved the Occupational Safety and Health Rules 2026. Under the new rules, institutions with 50 or more employees must appoint safety and health officers. Employers will also be required to provide workplace safety measures, emergency response training, and first aid facilities.
The cabinet also approved the expansion of Sifat Ghayoor Shaheed Memorial Hospital to improve healthcare services for surrounding communities.
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The latest reforms highlight the KP government’s commitment to modernizing the healthcare system. By expanding Sehat Card services, investing in digital healthcare, strengthening hospitals, and improving preventive care, the province aims to provide better medical services and improve public health outcomes for its residents.
