CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif launches grand health program for Punjab

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has given orders to expedite the completion and functionalization of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology-II (PIC-II).

During her visit to the construction site near the canal in Lahore, she reviewed the ongoing work and emphasized the importance of completing the project as soon as possible.

The PIC-II will have 250 beds, state-of-the-art hybrid operation theaters, emergency, surgical, and medical units, as well as intensive care units (ICUs).

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif highlighted that the establishment of PIC-II will alleviate the pressure on the existing Punjab Institute of Cardiology. She also announced that a plan to provide comprehensive cardiology facilities in every district is underway.

Additionally, she mentioned that introducing a card system for pediatric heart surgery has facilitated the successful completion of hundreds of surgeries.

The Chief Minister was briefed by Punjab Infrastructure Development Authority CEO Shah Mir Iqbal and provided guidelines to enhance the design. She directed authorities to ensure the timely supply of necessary machinery for the project ¹. Notably, over 90% of the PIC-II’s gray structure has been completed.

In a separate development, Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring access to quality medicines.

He emphasized that this is a fundamental right of the people and will not be compromised. During a meeting with the Punjab Chemist Council, Nazir assured the council that the government would address their legitimate demands and intensify the campaign against quackery.

He urged the council to cooperate with health authorities in preventing artificial shortages and hoarding of medicines. The health department is digitally monitoring medicine supplies to prevent the sale of life-saving medicines at inflated prices.