PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that while
transformation in the medical field is challenging
it is certainly achievable with collective effort
APP
Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday inaugurated the digital licensing and registration system for medical devices, terming it a significant step toward revolutionizing Pakistan’s healthcare sector. He emphasized that while transformation in the medical field is challenging, it is certainly achievable with collective effort.
Digital System to Improve Transparency and Efficiency
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, PM Shehbaz praised the Ministry of Health and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) for their efforts. He congratulated Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, Secretary Health, and DRAP CEO for launching the system and acknowledged that the initiative began during the previous PDM government.
He noted that the new system will enable registration of medical devices within 20 days, a process that previously took years. “The culture of bribery and unnecessary delays has ended. Transparency and merit will now lead the way,” he said.
Commitment to Reform and Healthcare Equity
The Prime Minister also highlighted past initiatives, including reforms in government hospitals where 60% of medicines initially failed quality tests but improved significantly after corrective actions. He reiterated his government’s commitment to providing equal access to high-quality healthcare for all citizens, regardless of income.
He added that Pakistan’s Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology is now a top cardiac care hospital due to merit-based appointments and consistent oversight. “We need similar models across the country,” he said.
Population Growth and Waterborne Diseases a Major Concern
PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of controlling Pakistan’s population growth rate, which currently stands at 2.5%, with a fertility rate of 3.6%. “We are adding over 6.1 million people annually — more than the population of New Zealand,” he warned.
He also highlighted that 68% of diseases in Pakistan stem from unsafe drinking water and lack of proper sewage systems, especially in new housing societies.
Health Minister: No More Favors in Device Licensing
In his address, Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal said the digital system aligns with PM Shehbaz’s vision of curbing corruption and eliminating the culture of recommendations in licensing. Applicants can now apply from home and receive licenses within 20 days.
He also announced plans to introduce QR codes and barcodes on medicines, enabling citizens to verify authenticity, expiry, and price—expected to be implemented within three months.
Kamal added that the government is working on strengthening primary healthcare to reduce the burden on major hospitals, improving nursing and medical councils, and forming a high-level committee on population control.
System Launched and First License Issued
At the conclusion of the ceremony, PM Shehbaz formally inaugurated the digital platform alongside federal ministers and top DRAP officials. The CEO of Quick Test Pakistan Ltd. received the first license under the new system.
Federal Ministers Attaullah Tarar, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and senior officials from the Ministry of Health and DRAP were present on the occasion.
