Learn how to access free medical treatment and medicines in Pakistan through government schemes like the Sehat Card. Find out who is eligible, how to check your Sehat Card status online, and which diseases are covered. Explore the availability of free hospitals, medicines, and CM Punjab’s health initiatives for low-income families.
How to Get Free Medical Treatment Under Government Schemes in Pakistan
Access to quality healthcare is essential, but the cost of treatment can be a significant burden for many people. In Pakistan, the government has launched several schemes to ensure that citizens can receive free or subsidized medical treatment, especially for those who cannot afford it. One of the most notable schemes is the Sehat Card, which provides free medical treatment and essential services to eligible individuals across the country.
Here’s a detailed guide on how you can get free medical treatment under government schemes in Pakistan:
1. Sehat Card: A Key Government Initiative
The Sehat Card is a health insurance program launched by the government of Pakistan to provide free medical services to underprivileged families. This scheme is designed to cover medical expenses for various illnesses, surgeries, and treatments at both public and private hospitals that are part of the program.
Who Is Eligible for a Sehat Card in Pakistan?
Eligibility for the Sehat Card primarily depends on the individual’s socio-economic status. The program is targeted at families who fall under the poverty line. However, the exact criteria may vary depending on the region and local government policies. Typically, the following groups are eligible:
- Low-income households
- Families with limited access to healthcare services
- Individuals living in rural or remote areas
- Senior citizens, widows, and other vulnerable groups
In most provinces, the Sehat Card is issued to individuals who are registered in the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) system. You can verify your eligibility by checking your registration details with NADRA.
How Much Is the Amount in a Sehat Card?
The Sehat Card offers coverage that varies depending on the province and the plan. Typically, the coverage is in the range of Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,000,000 per year per family member. This amount is used to cover the costs of hospitalization, surgeries, medical tests, and medicines at approved hospitals.
- Punjab: The Punjab government offers coverage up to Rs. 1,000,000 annually.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): In KP, the coverage is around Rs. 500,000 annually for treatment and medical procedures.
- Balochistan and Sindh: These regions also provide a substantial amount for free medical services, although the coverage may differ slightly.
The Sehat Card covers a wide range of medical treatments, including but not limited to emergency services, maternity care, surgeries, and long-term health conditions.
2. Free Medicine from Government Schemes
In addition to the Sehat Card, the government of Pakistan has several programs that ensure the availability of free or subsidized medicine for those in need.
How to Get Free Medicine in Pakistan
Many public hospitals in Pakistan offer free medicines to eligible patients under various government schemes. Here’s how you can access them:
- Visit Public Hospitals: Government hospitals in major cities and rural areas often have a pharmacy where medicines are provided free of charge for certain diseases.
- Visit Health Clinics: Local health clinics run by the government also provide free or subsidized medicines for common illnesses such as flu, fever, and basic health conditions.
- Special Health Camps: The government organizes health camps in underdeveloped areas where medicines are distributed for free, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and tuberculosis.
Free Medicine from Government
The government-run health programs aim to make essential medicines available for free to individuals who cannot afford them. These medicines include those used to treat:
- Infectious diseases (like malaria, TB, and hepatitis)
- Chronic diseases (such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease)
- Maternal and child health conditions (e.g., prenatal vitamins and post-natal care)
- Pain management and emergency treatments
If you’re eligible for the Sehat Card or any other government healthcare program, you can receive free medicines for a wide range of health conditions.
3. Sehat Card: Online Services and Check
For convenience, the government of Pakistan has made it easier for citizens to check the status and balance of their Sehat Card online. You can:
- Sehat Card Online Check: Visit the official website or app to check whether you are eligible and to verify your status. You can also check the available balance for your treatment and medical coverage.
- Sehat Card Check Online Punjab: The Punjab government has a dedicated portal where residents can check their Sehat Card details and track the services they are eligible for.
- Sehat Card Helpline Punjab: You can contact the Sehat Card helpline in Punjab for any assistance regarding your Sehat Card, including issues related to card activation, balance, and hospitals where you can receive treatment.
4. Free Medicine in Lahore and CM Punjab’s Initiatives
In Lahore and other parts of Punjab, Chief Minister (CM) Punjab’s initiatives provide free medical treatment and medicine for low-income families. Under this initiative, individuals can visit government hospitals and health centers to get free consultations, diagnostic tests, and essential medicines.
- CM Punjab Free Medicine: As part of the government’s social welfare programs, CM Punjab has launched several initiatives to ensure that the economically disadvantaged can access essential healthcare without financial barriers.
- Sehat Card Balance Check: To check the balance on your Sehat Card, you can either visit an authorized healthcare provider or use the online services provided by the government. You will need your Sehat Card number to check the balance.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which diseases are covered by the Sehat Card? The Sehat Card covers a wide range of diseases, including emergency treatments, surgeries, maternity care, cancer treatment, and chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
- Are there free hospitals in Pakistan? Yes, many government hospitals in Pakistan provide free treatment for eligible individuals. These hospitals are part of government schemes like the Sehat Card, which offers free hospitalization and medical services.
- How can I check my Sehat Card status? You can check your Sehat Card status online by visiting the official Sehat Card website or app. You can also visit the Sehat Card helpline in your region for assistance.
- How much is the coverage for the Sehat Card? The coverage for the Sehat Card varies by region, but it typically offers up to Rs. 1,000,000 annually for medical treatment, depending on the area.
Conclusion
The government of Pakistan provides multiple avenues for free medical treatment and medicine under schemes like the Sehat Card. These initiatives are designed to support those in need and ensure that healthcare is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. By understanding the eligibility criteria and how to utilize these schemes, you can ensure that you and your family receive the necessary medical treatment without the burden of high healthcare costs.
