- 148 X-ray machines procured for provinces to help eradicate tuberculosis from country
ISLAMABAD: Coordinator to Prime Minister for Health Dr. Mukhtar Bharath has said that a series of revolutionary reforms are underway to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) from Pakistan.
Dr Mukhtar told a press briefing these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to combat both infectious and non-communicable diseases. He highlighted government’s commitment to TB eradication, detailing the recent procurement of 148 X-ray machines for the provinces. “So far, 133 X-ray machines have already been distributed, with the remainder set to be delivered shortly,” he said, adding that the initiative is expected to enhance the diagnostic capabilities of hospitals providing TB detection and treatment services.
Of the 133 machines distributed, Dr. Mukhtar noted that 91 have already become operational. “We are ensuring that these machines are installed in hospitals that focus on TB diagnosis and treatment,” he stated. The remaining machines will enter service once the necessary training for additional staff is completed, further improving the healthcare infrastructure’s capacity to manage TB cases effectively, he added.
“We are implementing a reform agenda in the health sector that emphasizes the establishment of a cohesive strategy to deal with both infectious and non-communicable diseases,” Dr. Mukhtar said. He reiterated the importance of strengthening the primary healthcare system, ensuring that all vital measures are being taken to enhance the quality and accessibility of health services across the country.