The Balochistan government has planned satellite connectivity for 1,500 health centres across the province. The initiative aims to improve healthcare delivery in remote and underserved areas.
The plan also includes telemedicine services and the digitalisation of health centres. These measures are expected to help expand access to healthcare in areas with limited medical facilities.
According to a written reply submitted to the National Assembly, the provincial government has developed the digital health initiatives. It is also implementing the planned reforms across the province.
The government has also envisaged cooperation with the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). The proposed cooperation would support satellite connectivity for health facilities.
Telemedicine to expand healthcare access
The planned digitalisation will cover 1,500 health centres across Balochistan. Satellite connectivity could support healthcare services in areas where conventional connectivity remains limited.
Telemedicine will form another key part of the initiative. It could help connect patients in remote locations with healthcare professionals.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has introduced broader reforms across the healthcare sector. These reforms cover legislation, governance, human resources and primary and tertiary healthcare.
The government has enacted eight health laws as part of its reform efforts. It has also decentralised more than 20 administrative and financial powers during the past 18 months.
Thousands of healthcare workers recruited
Balochistan has also focused on strengthening its healthcare workforce. Around 2,739 healthcare workers have been recruited across the province.
Meanwhile, 4,254 health personnel have received promotions. The figure includes more than 600 doctors whose promotions followed a waiver of annual confidential reports.
The government has also worked to restore healthcare facilities that were previously non-functional. As part of this effort, it has revived 164 Basic Health Units.
These measures aim to strengthen healthcare delivery alongside the planned digital initiatives. Consequently, the province is pursuing both infrastructure and workforce improvements.
Federal government offers technical support
The Ministry of National Health Services has clarified that health remains a provincial subject. However, the ministry has expressed readiness to provide support when requested.
The federal government’s assistance could include technical guidance and coordination. It may also provide policy coordination, knowledge sharing and technical assistance.
The proposed support could cover telemedicine and digital health systems. It may also extend to disease-surveillance systems.
Meanwhile, the provincial government will continue implementing its digital health plans. The satellite connectivity initiative is particularly aimed at improving access in remote parts of Balochistan.
By combining satellite connectivity, telemedicine and digitalisation, the province plans to address some healthcare access challenges. The initiative also forms part of wider reforms targeting healthcare services across Balochistan.
