The federal government has announced the restoration of the Sehat Sahulat health card facility for more than 10 million residents across Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. The decision was approved by the National Steering Committee of the Sehat Sahulat Programme, chaired by Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal.

During the committee meeting, a revised PC-I for the program was approved, with an estimated cost of Rs. 40 billion. This approval paves the way for the resumption of health card services starting from January 16. The revised PC-I will remain in effect until June 30, 2027, ensuring continued coverage and support for millions of citizens.

The meeting brought together key officials, including Health Secretary Hamid Yaqoob, Special Secretary Health, and Sehat Sahulat Programme CEO Arshad Khan, along with other committee members. Discussions focused on operational readiness, budget allocation, and ensuring seamless service delivery for beneficiaries.

The Sehat Sahulat Programme, Pakistan’s flagship health insurance initiative, provides free or subsidized medical treatment for eligible residents. Restoration of the program is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved regions like Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Officials highlighted that the program not only alleviates financial burdens on families but also strengthens public health infrastructure by facilitating treatment at approved hospitals and clinics. With the resumption of services, citizens will regain access to hospitalization, surgeries, and specialized treatments covered under the scheme.

The restoration of the Sehat Sahulat health card is being widely welcomed as a critical step toward universal health coverage in Pakistan. It reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access and supporting vulnerable populations across the country.