In a major healthcare initiative, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the Chief Minister Cardiac Surgery Programme, aiming to provide free and timely treatment to heart patients across the province.
According to the report, the programme has been initiated under the supervision of the Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department following formal approval by the chief minister.
Under the scheme, free cardiac treatment will be provided at selected hospitals, including nine public and 15 private cardiac institutions across Punjab.
The programme is specifically designed for permanent residents of Punjab suffering from heart diseases. As part of the initiative, the first successful open-heart surgery has already been conducted at the Punjab Institute of Cardiology.
The provincial government has allocated more than Rs3 billion annually for the programme, with a target to eliminate long waiting lists for open-heart surgeries within six months.
To facilitate patients, a dedicated helpline (0800-09009) has been established, while additional assistance is available via phone and WhatsApp through the department.
Speaking on the occasion, Maryam Nawaz said the government is committed to providing modern healthcare facilities to thousands of heart patients. She added that the programme will ensure free and timely treatment for those suffering from cardiac diseases.
