Initiative aims to improve patient care and strengthen medical training across the province
LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched the Punjab Health Connect Program, an initiative designed to bring leading overseas Pakistani and international specialist doctors and surgeons to government hospitals for free patient care and professional training.
Introduced on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the programme seeks to enhance the quality of public healthcare by encouraging collaboration between local medical professionals and internationally experienced specialists.
Under the initiative, visiting doctors and surgeons will provide specialised treatment to patients in government hospitals across Punjab. At the same time, they will train local physicians, surgeons and healthcare staff in advanced surgical procedures, modern clinical techniques and international best practices.
Officials said the programme aims to improve healthcare standards while strengthening the skills and capacity of the province’s medical workforce.
Focus on international expertise
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said delivering healthcare services that meet international standards remains a key priority of her administration. She stated that the government is working to modernise Punjab’s public healthcare system through reforms and greater collaboration with experienced medical professionals from around the world.
According to the chief minister, the initiative will also help address the shortage of specialist doctors in government hospitals by enabling overseas experts to share their knowledge and clinical experience with local healthcare providers.
Improving healthcare access
The Punjab Health Connect Program is expected to expand access to specialised medical services for patients who rely on public hospitals for treatment. Authorities believe the initiative will improve patient outcomes while supporting long-term institutional development through continuous medical education and practical training.
Health officials said collaboration with internationally qualified doctors will expose local medical teams to advanced treatment methods and evolving healthcare technologies, helping align provincial healthcare services with global standards.
The programme forms part of the Punjab government’s broader efforts to strengthen the public health sector through infrastructure improvements, workforce development and enhanced medical services. Officials expect the initiative to benefit both patients and healthcare professionals by fostering sustainable improvements in the quality and delivery of healthcare across the province.
