The Sehat Insaf Card is a vital healthcare program in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), offering free medical treatment to millions of people. Recently, the State Life Insurance Company announced that the free medical services under this card had been restored. This decision came after the provincial government assured the insurance company that a payment of Rs. 6 billion would be made by the following Friday. This was a crucial development because, just hours earlier, the company had announced that they would stop the free treatment due to unpaid dues.
Payment Agreement to Restore Services
The main reason for the halt in services was the unpaid amount of Rs. 18 billion that the provincial government of K-P owed to the State Life Insurance Company. Although the government had already paid Rs. 13 billion since March 2024, the remaining Rs. 5 billion was still unpaid. This situation led to the insurance company’s decision to stop providing free treatment services.
However, after further discussions, the government assured that Rs. 6 billion would be paid by next Friday. This promise allowed the insurance company to restore the free treatment services for the people of K-P, ensuring that those who rely on the Sehat Insaf Card for healthcare would continue to receive the necessary medical care.
Meeting to Resolve Unpaid Dues
To address the issue of unpaid dues in a more comprehensive manner, a detailed meeting has been planned between the Advisor to the Chief Minister on Finance, Muzammil Aslam, and the health minister. They will meet with representatives from the State Life Insurance Company to discuss how to resolve the problem of the remaining unpaid amounts and ensure that the Sehat Insaf Card program runs smoothly without interruptions in the future.
The provincial government has also committed to paying Rs. 3 billion per month to the insurance company, but past payments have been inconsistent. This inconsistency has put strain on the program, causing concerns about its sustainability.
Restoration of Sehat Insaf Card Services
In March 2024, the Sehat Insaf Card services were fully restored after a temporary reduction during the interim government period. At that time, budget constraints led to a scale-back of the free healthcare services offered through the card. This reduction had a negative impact on many low-income families, as they depend on the card for medical treatments.
The restoration of these services in March was a significant move by the provincial government, and now, with the new payment agreement, free treatment has once again been restored. This allows people across K-P to access the essential healthcare services they need, without financial burden.
History and Expansion of Sehat Insaf Card
The Sehat Insaf Card program was first introduced in 2015. Initially, it was launched in only four districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Over the years, the program expanded significantly, and by 2020, it covered the entire province. Today, the program provides free treatment in 118 public and private hospitals across K-P, offering more than 1,800 different medical treatments.
The provincial government spends approximately Rs. 3 billion per month on this program, making it one of the most significant healthcare initiatives in the region. It has been widely praised for providing essential medical care to those who would otherwise struggle to afford it.
Government’s Commitment to Healthcare
The Health Minister of K-P, Syed Qasim Ali Shah, has emphasized that the Sehat Insaf Card is a long-term project that will continue to serve the people of the province. He reassured the public that the government is committed to the program’s success and that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s leadership will ensure its sustainability.
The government has allocated Rs. 5 billion specifically to ensure the continuation of the Sehat Insaf Card program. Additionally, the health minister acknowledged that there have been challenges, such as over-billing and irregularities, but these are being addressed. The goal is to ensure that the program operates transparently and efficiently, without any issues.
Health Card Services for Low-Income Families
One of the most important aspects of the Sehat Insaf Card is that it provides free healthcare services to low-income families. For many people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, healthcare is a major expense, and the Sehat Insaf Card helps alleviate this burden. Families that qualify for the program can receive treatment at any of the 118 hospitals in the province, both public and private, without having to worry about the cost.
This program is particularly beneficial for families who face chronic health issues or need access to specialized treatments that would otherwise be too expensive. The card covers a wide range of medical services, ensuring that people receive the care they need, whether it is for routine checkups or more complex medical procedures.
Sehat Insaf Card: A Lifeline for Millions
The Sehat Insaf Card is a lifeline for millions of people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It has transformed healthcare access for low-income families, allowing them to receive treatment without the financial stress that often accompanies medical bills. With the recent restoration of free treatment, the program continues to provide essential support to the province’s most vulnerable populations.
The government’s assurance to pay Rs. 6 billion to the State Life Insurance Company is a crucial step in ensuring that the program continues without further disruptions. This payment will help keep the program on track and allow the insurance company to maintain its services for the people who depend on the Sehat Insaf Card.
Conclusion
The restoration of free treatment under the Sehat Insaf Card is a welcome development for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The government’s commitment to pay Rs. 6 billion by Friday has allowed the State Life Insurance Company to continue offering free medical treatment across the province. This initiative remains a crucial part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s healthcare system, providing vital support to millions of residents.