Understanding the Health Card Pakistan initiative is essential for every citizen. Many people struggle with limited healthcare access in Pakistan due to high costs. To tackle this, the government launched the Sehat Sahulat Program. This card ensures financial coverage for hospital treatment and surgeries. The program provides services in both public and private hospitals. It aims to support underprivileged families without financial burdens. Let us now explore who qualifies and how it works.
The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) actively endorses initiatives like the Sehat Sahulat Program, recognizing their importance in expanding healthcare access in Pakistan and promoting the responsible use of quality medicines across both public and private sectors.
Who Can Apply for the Health Card in Pakistan?
CNIC-Based Eligibility and NADRA Registration
Eligibility for the health card starts with your national identity. The CNIC-based eligibility check helps identify qualifying individuals. Your NADRA registration for a health card is a key step. Without this registration, applications may not be processed. Citizens must verify their details through NADRA databases. The system cross-checks your income level and family data. This ensures that only genuine applicants receive benefits.
Income Threshold for Health Card
The government has set an income threshold for health card holders. This makes the system fair and focused on the needy. Households below the poverty line are automatically considered. Daily wage workers, unemployed individuals, and low-earning families are eligible.
Categories that usually qualify:
- Households earning less than PKR 30,000 monthly
- Individuals registered in the Benazir Income Support Program
- Residents in districts covered by the program
These groups benefit from the Sehat Sahulat Program under predefined conditions.
Family Coverage and Included Services
Health Card for Low-Income Families
The program ensures family coverage through health card benefits. It covers all members listed under the head of the household. There is no gender, age, or regional discrimination. The health card for low-income families ensures dignity and respect during treatment. Women, children, and elderly people are all protected under this umbrella.
Public and Private Hospitals Under the Program
The network includes public hospitals covered under health card services. Selected private hospitals are also included for specialized treatments. All hospitals in the panel follow quality and safety protocols.
Covered procedures often include:
- Surgeries like appendectomy, gallbladder removal, and C-sections
- Dialysis and chemotherapy sessions
- Emergency accident care
This wide access ensures free treatment in Pakistan for those who cannot afford it.
How to Apply for a Health Card in Pakistan
Simple Steps to Check Eligibility and Register
The process of how to apply for a health card is user-friendly. Start by sending your CNIC number to 8500 via SMS. You will receive a reply confirming your eligibility status. If eligible, visit the nearest Sehat Sahulat office with your CNIC. They will issue your card and provide usage details. This system promotes transparency and fast service.
Steps at a glance:
- Send CNIC number via SMS to 8500
- Get eligibility confirmation
- Visit registration center with CNIC
- Receive card and user guide
Ensure your NADRA registration for health card is updated to avoid delays.
Recent Reports Supporting Health Card Reforms
1. WHO Report on Universal Health Coverage (2023)
Pakistan ranks among the nations expanding health coverage quickly. WHO acknowledges Pakistanโs efforts through the Sehat Sahulat Program.
Read Report
2. Ministry of National Health Services Pakistan (2024)
Details expansion plans for the Health Card Program under Vision 2030. It includes wider provincial coverage and more private hospitals.
3. Global Financing Facility Report (2024)
Highlights Pakistan’s model as a public-private health partnership. Notes PPMAโs role in supporting policy and medicine availability.
Benefits of the Health Card for Pakistani Citizens
Improved Healthcare Access in Pakistan
The Health Card Pakistan brings massive change to the health sector. It directly improves healthcare access in Pakistan for marginalized groups. Patients can seek quality care without worrying about payment. Hospital admissions, surgeries, and medications are all covered.
Additionally, the card promotes better health awareness. Families are more likely to seek treatment on time. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and healthier lives.
PPMAโs Role in Strengthening Health Systems
The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) plays a vital role in aligning public health initiatives with national industry goals. It actively collaborates with government bodies to ensure affordable medicine availability under schemes like Health Card Pakistan.PPMA supports quality manufacturing practices, local pharmaceutical innovation, and regulatory upgrades. Its advocacy ensures that the medicines provided through health card programs are both safe and effective. This collaboration between public health initiatives and industry champions enhances national healthcare delivery.
Conclusion
Health Card Pakistan ensures fairness and focused delivery of services. Citizens meeting the income threshold for health cards should apply today. The system is based on CNIC-based eligibility checks through NADRA. Once verified, the benefits are immense and life-changing. It strengthens the national healthcare system, reducing burdens on families and hospitals. Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) supports such programs that improve healthcare access in Pakistan and ensure affordable, quality treatment for all.
