Prevailing State of Health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)

The latest episode of Jarga Maraka (debate and council) discussed the present status of available health facilities and issues faced by public in regard to it.

The program discussed governmental health initiatives and reforms in health department, the Health Care Bill 2015, Sehat Insaf Cards Program, the lack of doctors and the obsolete basic health units in rural areas, the shortage of funds for health care in KP, the lack of public awareness about safe hygiene as well as the unavailability of ambulances. Moreover, the program also elucidated the role of health care commission in resolving these issues and the lack of governmental influence on private hospitals in KP.

Mr. Muhammad Ayub, Additional Director General Health department, KP, and Mr. Zahid Merokhel, a Peshawar based journalist, took part as the studio guest in the show.

Mr. Ayub said: “About 93 major development projects were included in the health care development plan in 2016-17 with a budget of 10.5 billion rupees. I am optimistic that these projects will aid a lot in resolving the public health issues.”

Mr. Merokhel said: “The provision of basic health facilities is the responsibility of a government. Although KP government has taken several initiatives to counter health issues in the region there is still a dire need to improve the conditions.”

A radio report was the part of the radio program. The report highlighted KP government health reforms and gave an overview of Health Care Bill 2015.

Five callers took part live in the program. They demanded basic health facilities in rural areas and called on the government to provide the necessary equipment for emergency situations.

About Sabawoon

Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives an overview of the top stories from KP and FATA regions. Jwandai Jazbey airs on Wednesday and deals with issues of relevance to, and significance for, youth, students and women. Socio-cultural affairs are discussed in Ranra on Thursday.