Minister wants robust digital health system for Lahore’s hospitals

LAHORE: The out-patient departments (OPDs) of the government teaching hospitals in Lahore attend to over 50,000 patients daily, and a robust digital health system is needed to cater to the health needs of such a large number of people.

Punjab   Caretaker Health Minister Dr Javed Akram said this speaking as chief guest at the third Pakistan National Digital Health Conference held at a local hotel.

The formal opening of the conference was attended by Dr Azfar Malik, Muhammad Ansar, Prof Dr Fariha Farooq, Mian Muhammad Akram Shahid, Ali Shaukat, and Dr Zaki.

The minister took the opportunity to honour the attendees by presenting awards.

In his address, Dr Javed Akram proudly announced the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in the health system of Punjab, emphasising its significant role worldwide.

He mentioned that Punjab now offers 24/7 primary angioplasty facilities to heart patients in all cardiology hospitals and has devised an online dashboard to address drug shortages in government hospitals on a priority basis. Ensuring safe treatment for patients in Punjab's government hospitals remains a top priority for the administration, he added.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the minister asserted that it acted as a catalyst for innovation and research in the health sector rather than its end.

He reiterated the government's commitment to introduce innovative practices supported by the IT Board in the health system and the implementation of the HIMS system in all public hospitals.

He announced that all nursing schools in Punjab have been upgraded to nursing colleges, signifying the government's dedication to improving healthcare services.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Syed Mohsen Naqvi, the administration strives to enhance health facilities for the people of the province, he added.