Maryam Nawaz inaugurates Jinnah Institute of Cardiology in Lahore
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Friday inaugurated the Jinnah Institute of Cardiology in Lahore, calling the project a long-standing dream aimed at providing advanced cardiac treatment to patients.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony, she said heart disease had become increasingly common and that almost every household had someone suffering from a cardiac condition.
Maryam said patients from across Pakistan would be able to seek treatment at the new institute.
“Health is the greatest blessing,” she said, adding that those entrusted with public office have a responsibility to serve the people.
Free cardiac treatment for patients
The chief minister said the Punjab government was working to provide free treatment and medicines across the province. She said cardiac treatment at the Jinnah Institute of Cardiology would also be provided free of cost to eligible patients in Punjab.
Maryam praised the provincial health minister and his team for their efforts to improve healthcare services. She said the government was working to expand access to modern medical facilities so that patients could receive treatment closer to their homes.
Heart transplant fund announced
Maryam also announced plans to establish a heart transplant fund. She said the minimum cost of a heart transplant was around $50,000, making the procedure unaffordable for many patients.
The chief minister said heart transplant procedures at the Jinnah Institute of Cardiology would begin on Saturday. The announcement could provide hope to patients requiring specialised cardiac treatment, which is often expensive and difficult to access.
Advanced cardiac facilities at new institute
Maryam said the institute had been equipped with a modern hybrid catheterisation laboratory, internationally equipped wards and advanced cardiac equipment. She added that hospital staff had received training according to international standards.
The new facility is expected to strengthen specialised cardiac care in Lahore and provide advanced treatment options for patients. The government aims to expand modern healthcare services and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialised treatment.
More than 12,000 children undergo surgeries
The chief minister said more than 12,000 children had undergone surgeries during the past year. She also said that 16 catheterisation laboratories were now operational across Punjab.
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The expansion of these facilities is part of the provincial government’s broader efforts to improve access to specialised healthcare. Cardiac treatment remains a major area of focus as the government works to increase the availability of modern medical services.
More healthcare initiatives announced
Maryam highlighted several other healthcare initiatives being planned or introduced by the Punjab government. She said preparations were under way to launch a home dialysis programme for patients who require regular treatment.
The chief minister also said a stroke-prevention injection had been made available free of charge. She added that the Punjab Air Ambulance service had been introduced to help people in need and improve access to emergency medical care.
Healthcare services closer to people
Maryam said the government was working to ensure that people could access quality healthcare without travelling to other cities.
“No person should have to travel to another city for treatment,” she said.
She added that efforts were under way to expand healthcare services and bring medical facilities closer to people’s homes. The government would also continue responding to public demand for initiatives such as the Clinics on Wheels programme, she said.
Government pledges to expand healthcare facilities
The chief minister said governments had a responsibility to ensure that people received their due rights and access to essential services. She said the Punjab government would continue expanding healthcare facilities and improving services across the province.
The inauguration of the Jinnah Institute of Cardiology marks another step in efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare in Punjab. The focus, she said, remains on providing modern and affordable treatment to people who need it.
