The Punjab government has announced a new Certificate in Family Medicine programme for general practitioners to improve primary healthcare services across the province. The six-month initiative aims to provide doctors with modern medical training and strengthen the quality of treatment available at the community level.
The programme was finalized after the University of Health Sciences (UHS) and the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) signed a memorandum of understanding. Both institutions agreed to collaborate on improving primary care services and enhancing professional training for healthcare providers.
Doctors to Receive Advanced Medical Training
According to the programme details, the certificate course will train general practitioners in evidence-based treatment methods, patient safety practices, and clinical governance.
UHS Vice Chancellor Prof Ahsen Waheed Rathore said the university will arrange practical training at affiliated teaching hospitals and approved healthcare centres across Punjab.
Furthermore, the programme will include specialized certification courses in important medical areas. These courses will cover Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), trauma management, emergency care, newborn care, and maternal healthcare.
Successful participants will receive certificates from the University of Health Sciences after completing the required training.
PHC to Support Healthcare Quality Improvement
Prof Rathore said the Punjab Healthcare Commission will play an important role in supporting the programme. The commission will help improve treatment standards, infection control measures, patient safety, and trainer development.
He added that strengthening the skills of family physicians will directly benefit patients. Moreover, better-trained general practitioners can help reduce pressure on major teaching hospitals by providing improved care at the primary level.
PHC Chief Executive Officer Dr Muhammad Saqib Aziz said the programme will provide a new direction for continuous professional development among general practitioners.
He further stated that UHS will receive complete support for the initiative. Additionally, more certificate courses will be introduced in the future to expand medical training opportunities.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare in Punjab
The new programme reflects Punjab’s efforts to improve healthcare delivery through skilled medical professionals. By focusing on family medicine training, authorities aim to create a stronger primary healthcare system.
Furthermore, the initiative will help doctors stay updated with modern medical practices. As a result, patients will have better access to safe, effective, and quality healthcare services closer to their communities.
