In a recent development, Sheikh Zayed Hospital has stopped providing free-of-cost medicines for patients using health cards. This decision has sparked significant concern among patients and card holders.
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Health Card Facilities Closed
According to the News, the hospital’s health card offices have been shut down due to what has been described as administrative mismanagement. This closure means that patients are no longer able to receive medicines and medical equipment at no cost, as was intended by the program. Instead, patients are now required to purchase these items from private pharmacies.
The State Life Insurance Company, which oversees this program, has informed the head of the Hospital about this issue. A spokesperson from the company stated that the lack of hospital facilitation for patients has forced them to seek alternatives for obtaining necessary medicines and equipment.
Hospital Administration’s Explanation
The hospital administration has attributed the discontinuation of free of cost medicines to a shortage of funds. They cited financial difficulties that have led to a lack of available medications and the necessity to settle outstanding payments with contractors.
In response to the hospital’s failure to provide free treatment, the Punjab Health Company has announced that it will cease its cooperation with the hospital. The company criticized the financial strain being placed on health card holders and condemned the hospital’s handling of the situation.
This situation is particularly concerning for those relying on these cards for affordable healthcare. The intended benefit of the program—providing free treatment—has been undermined by the hospital’s actions. Patients are now facing increased out-of-pocket expenses for medicines and medical supplies, contrary to the original goal of the program.
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