Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Introduces Free OPD Services Under Sehat Card Plus

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has taken a major step in healthcare reform by launching free outpatient department (OPD) services under the Sehat Card Plus program. This initiative aims to expand healthcare access to deserving families, making basic medical services more affordable and accessible.

The program was officially launched by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur during a ceremony at the Chief Minister’s House, attended by provincial ministers, lawmakers, and health officials. The initiative is expected to significantly ease the financial burden of low-income households in the province.

Pilot Phase: Mardan to Lead the Initiative

The program’s pilot phase has begun in Mardan, covering 50,000 low-income households. The next expansion phase will include:

Chitral
Malakand
Kohat

Eventually, the program aims to benefit around 120,000 families, with eligibility determined through Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) data.

What the Free OPD Services Cover

Under this initiative, eligible patients will receive:

Free Medical Consultations – Access to qualified doctors at Sehat Card panel hospitals.
Medications & Diagnostic Tests – Essential drugs, lab tests, and screenings at no cost.
Wider Access to Healthcare Facilities – Services available at Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centers (RHCs) at the Union Council level.

This comprehensive coverage will ensure that financial constraints do not prevent families from seeking medical attention.

German Organization KfW’s Support & Future Expansion

The initiative is being implemented with support from KfW, a German development bank that funds projects in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The partnership is expected to enhance the program’s sustainability and efficiency.

With successful implementation in initial regions, the government plans to expand OPD services across KP, eventually reaching millions of residents.

KP’s Leadership in Healthcare Reforms

During the launch, Chief Minister Gandapur emphasized that KP is the first province in Pakistan to introduce free OPD services under the Sehat Card program.

“Our commitment is to ensure that both admitted patients and OPD visitors receive treatment without financial burden,” he stated.

The initiative reflects KP’s long-term healthcare vision, ensuring that citizens receive quality medical care without out-of-pocket expenses.

Why This Initiative Matters

Affordable Healthcare for Low-Income Families – Addressing the financial barriers to medical treatment.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare – Encouraging preventive care and early diagnosis to reduce hospital admissions.
Boosting Public Health Infrastructure – Expanding medical services in rural and underserved areas.

KP’s free OPD services under Sehat Card Plus mark a transformative moment for Pakistan’s healthcare system. By making medical consultations, medicines, and tests free, the government is setting an example for other provinces.

As the program expands further, millions of people will have access to essential healthcare services, ultimately leading to a healthier and more productive society.