Conclave on Public Health and Healthcare Challenges in Pakistan
At the recent 27th Biennial Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA) Central Convention, healthcare professionals and experts gathered to address the pressing issues of disease prevention and escalating healthcare costs. The convention brought together attendees from both Pakistan and abroad to shed light on the dire state of public health in the country.
Prioritizing Disease Prevention
The convention resonated with a unanimous call for the government to prioritize disease prevention and primary healthcare, which currently accounts for 70 to 80 percent of out-of-pocket health spending for most individuals. Experts highlighted that prevention measures such as vaccination programs, education campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles, and early detection screenings for conditions like cancer and diabetes are crucial in alleviating the growing burden of diseases in Pakistan.
Lifestyle Changes for Better Health
In addressing lifestyle changes, experts emphasized urging individuals to adopt healthier habits such as consuming a diet rich in vegetables and fruits while reducing meat and oil consumption. This shift towards a balanced diet can significantly contribute to overall well-being. Additionally, renowned neurologist Prof Teepu Siddique stressed that access to clean drinking water and proper sanitation is essential in preventing waterborne illnesses like cholera and diarrhea.
Empathy-Centered Healthcare System
A notable concern raised during the convention was the lack of empathy within Pakistan’s healthcare system despite its technically competent medical professionals. The significance of an expanded medical curriculum that integrates bioethics training was stressed as a means to cultivate empathy among future healthcare practitioners.
Religious-Scientific Knowledge Integration
Islamic scholar Khalilur Rehman Chishti underscored the importance of integrating religious wisdom with scientific knowledge. He advocated for a holistic education encompassing religious teachings alongside scientific advancements as vital for societal progress.
Challenges at Home: Alarming Statistics
Dr. Zafar Mirza, Former Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health, revealed disheartening statistics regarding Pakistan’s inadequate allocation towards healthcare funding – only one percent of GDP is directed towards this critical sector whereas five percent is recommended. Moreover, Dr. Mirza highlighted that around 70-80 percent public out-of-pocket expenditure is attributed solely to primary healthcare services due largely to a deficit in universal health coverage program inclusion.
Upholding Ethical Standards in Pharmaceuticals
Asim Rauf, CEO of Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), ensured rigorous actions against pharmaceutical companies engaging in unethical marketing practices thus emphasizing ethical transparency within pharmaceutical industries.nn Published information from Dawn on September 22nd, 2024 still advises awareness on these serious health discussions taking place nationwide - awaiting further updates toward crafting lasting solutions beneficially impactful across numerous sectors bearing significant relevance impacting societal paradigms concerning wellness maintenance chiefly focusing upon preventive strategies similar patterns expected shaping better preparedness amidst uncertain future developments.”
The post Healthcare Experts Call on Government to Prioritize Preventive and Primary Healthcare Investment in Karachi Convention first appeared on Capital Cities.
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Author : Jean-Pierre Challot
Publish date : 2024-09-22 08:17:00
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