Launch of telemedicine services discussed

Islamabad:A meeting was chaired by Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa to discuss the launch of telemedicine services at Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centres (RHCs) in Islamabad.

The meeting, which was attended by senior officers including CDA Members, the Deputy Commissioner of ICT, the Executive Director of Capital Hospital, and other relevant officers, focused on expanding access to healthcare services for Islamabad’s residents.

During the meeting, a detailed briefing was given on the telemedicine initiative to be introduced for BHUs in Islamabad. The initiative is aimed at improving access to professional medical consultations, especially for patients who may not have immediate access to healthcare professionals. The telemedicine services would enable the patients to consult doctors remotely, thus addressing the critical need for healthcare after regular hours.

Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasised the importance of making healthcare services more accessible and efficient, especially during non-operating hours. He instructed the concerned to work out the budget for the introduction of telemedicine services at each BHU. He also directed to ensure that patients receive quality and continuous access to healthcare services. It was decided to work out a road map for introducing telemedicine services as a pilot project at a few BHUs for the first six months in the first phase. It was also discussed to work out a comprehensive plan for the roll-out of telemedicine services across all BHUs in later phase.

CDA chairman also stressed the urgency of improving primary healthcare access in Islamabad by introducing a programme for the overhaul of Rural Health Centres and Basic Health Units to enhance the quality and access to services. The Chairman directed the development of a comprehensive business model for revenue generation for BHUs and RHCs. He stated that the revenue generated thus would be spent on the betterment of the BHUs infrastructure and improvement of health facilities.

Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa’s leadership and commitment to improving the healthcare system reflect his determination to enhance access to primary care and provide modern, efficient healthcare solutions to the people of Islamabad.

‘Need to eliminate GBV’

Islamabad:Parliamentary Secretary of Ministry of Human Rights Saba Sadiq underscored the critical need to eliminate gender-based violence, aligning with the global theme, ‘Unite! Invest in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.’

She stated this while addressing the at the launching of the event of the16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women and Girls launched at the Pakistan National Council of Arts, says a press release.

Mrs. Sadiq highlighted Pakistan’s robust legal and policy frameworks designed to combat violence against women. She emphasised key reforms, including the Anti-Harassment Act, enforcement of women’s property rights, and the establishment of helplines and shelters. She also acknowledged efforts to empower women economically and socially through targeted programs, despite cultural barriers.

Calling for collective action, Mrs. Sadiq urged federal and provincial governments, NGOs, and international organisations to work together for a society free from fear and violence. Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to gender equality, she concluded, “Let us unite to ensure justice, dignity, and equality for all.”