Punjab govt to enhance universal health insurance program

LAHORE: Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique announced the government's intent to enhance the universal health insurance program during a meeting at the Punjab Health Initiative Management Company.
The session, attended by representatives of various insurance companies, focused on improving the existing framework of the health insurance system. 
The minister said that all stakeholders are being engaged to refine the program, highlighting the effective administration of the health card program under PML-N President Nawaz Sharif’s leadership but acknowledged challenges in universalizing the health card facility. 
“We want to provide the real benefits of the Universal Health Insurance Program to the people,” he said.
He said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is committed to improving government hospital conditions, aiming for a system where “healthy citizens pay for the sick and the rich pay for the poor.” He stressed the need for a sustainable model for the universal health insurance program.
Dr. Ali Razak, CEO of the PHIMC, gave a briefing on the program’s current status. Representatives from State Life Insurance Company, Adamjee Insurance, and other insurers responded positively, lauding the expert suggestions for the program’s improvement.