KP government allocates Rs 250 million for free dialysis and cancer treatment services”

 

 The administration recently announced a major change to the health care plan, expanding chronic disease coverage . The scheme, which was previously limited to three emergency illnesses, now includes provisions for cancer patients and those requiring dialysis. This expansion brings relief to many people who need lifelong treatment for these conditions. 

 

 Under the revised plan, the insurer has maintained a reserve fund of Rs 500 million to support patients whose limit of Rs 400,000 has been exhausted. The foundation has facilitated 164 kidney transplants and 64 liver transplants, thereby providing essential support to these people. Who needs it?Despite this progress, authorities have pointed out that liver and kidney transplants are currently not included in the program due to  high costs. The procedures costing Rs 5 million and Rs 1.4 million respectively, remain out of reach for many patients who depend on the scheme. 

 

 While the previous caretaker government  considered limiting free treatment services to low-income populations, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Inaf government has extended the program to the entire population. People passed the 2022 Act on Universal Health Insurance. Although there are currently no  plans to include liver and kidney transplants in the program, authorities have not ruled out this possibility in the future.Patients in need of liver and kidney transplants have expressed their need for these procedures, and some patients have been tested and searched for donors. However, due to current restrictions, free transplantation is currently not feasible. 

 

 The new health policy marks an important step towards improving coverage of chronic diseases, providing vital support for people who need  ongoing medical treatment.