Free outpatient cover begins in Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan has started a free OPD health insurance pilot so poorer households can visit clinics without paying outpatient fees. The regional government is running the trial with backing from Germany, channelled through KfW — the German public development bank that finances such social projects. Officials say care will be delivered against OPD Sehat Hifazat Cards issued to registered beneficiaries.
The launch ceremony took place at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on the region’s Independence Day. Chief Minister Amjad Hussain was joined by Assembly Deputy Speaker Malik Kifayatur Rehman, Health Minister Iqbal Hassan, fellow cabinet members, the health secretary, and staff from partner agencies.
How the pilot is meant to work
The GB health department is leading implementation. Card holders are to receive outpatient services free of charge under the free OPD health insurance arrangement, easing day-to-day medical costs for families that struggle to pay for consultations and related care.
Amjad Hussain called the step a notable advance for primary care in the mountains. He said the aim is that needy households can reach basic treatment “without facing an unbearable financial burden.” He also welcomed Germany’s pledge to keep supporting the third and fourth phases, arguing that longer partnership would shore up services and the wider health system.
Authorities put the first-phase reach at about 67,000 people. Expansion to further districts is planned in stages once the pilot is under way.
Wider health goals beyond the cards
The chief minister said Gilgit-Baltistan still wants universal coverage so every resident can use quality facilities. He added that ties between Sindh’s government and the GB health department would deepen so needy patients from the region can get free care at major Sindh hospitals.
Separately, he said teaching at a proposed medical college should start next year. The college is meant to reduce the shortage of doctors locally and open medical training paths for capable students from Gilgit-Baltistan.
Aasan alfaaz mein
Gilgit-Baltistan mein gareeb gharanon ke liye muft OPD health insurance shuru ho gaya hai. Sehat Hifazat Card se bahar ke ilaj par paisa nahi dena parega. Pehle phase mein lagbhag 67,000 logon ko faida milne ka andaza hai. Agay districts aur Sindh ke bare aspatalon tak madad barhane ka irada hai.
