Peshawar, July 10: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Minister Syed Qasim Ali Shah Afridi has directed health authorities to accelerate the upgrading of public hospitals, setting a firm deadline to ensure that essential improvements are completed without unnecessary delay.
Chairing a review meeting on the province’s healthcare system, Afridi stressed that providing quality medical services to the public remains one of the government’s highest priorities. He instructed officials to closely monitor ongoing development projects and ensure that all hospitals meet the required standards within the stipulated timeframe.
During the meeting, officials presented updates on infrastructure development, the installation of modern medical equipment, and the recruitment of healthcare professionals. Afridi emphasized that upgraded hospitals should be equipped to deliver timely, efficient, and patient-centered care, particularly in underserved areas.
Expressing concern over delays in some projects, the minister warned that negligence and poor performance would not be tolerated. He directed the relevant departments to remove administrative hurdles, improve coordination, and submit regular progress reports to ensure transparency and accountability.
Health officials assured the minister that work on the identified hospitals is progressing and that efforts are being made to complete the projects within the prescribed deadline. They also highlighted plans to enhance emergency services, expand diagnostic facilities, and improve the availability of medicines.
Concluding the meeting, Afridi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the province’s healthcare system, stating that modern and well-equipped hospitals are essential for improving public health and ensuring better medical services for all citizens.
