Category: Health

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

The Patients’ Aid Foundation, in partnership with Faysal Bank Limited (FBL), is proud to announce the successful completion of the ‘Bike-A-Cause’ fundraiser. This event was organized to raise essential funds to provide free, high-quality treatment for underserved thalassemia patients at Jinnah Hospital (JPMC), catering to those from Karachi, interior Sindh, Balochistan, and other rural areas. The event, titled ‘Bike-A-Cause,’ saw the vibrant Karachi Cyclists Community riding in solidarity towards Jinnah Hospital, showing their support for Patients’ Aid Foundation’s mission of delivering quality healthcare to those in need. The funds raised will directly benefit marginalized thalassemia patients, offering them the treatment and care they deserve at no cost. Mr. Mushtaq Chhapra, Chairman of the Patients’ Aid Foundation, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Bike-A-Cause is more than just a cycling event; it is a movement uniting the community in the pursuit of better healthcare for all. This event underscores the power of collective effort to ensure that patients at Jinnah Hospital receive the best possible care. We are deeply thankful to Faysal Bank for their unwavering support in this noble cause.” Mr. Yousaf Hussain, President and CEO, Faysal Bank, whilst addressing the cyclists, said, “We are honoured to stand with the Patient Aid Foundation in their efforts to raise awareness and support for those affected by thalassemia. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and bring hope to those who need it most. As a leading Islamic Bank, it is our privilege to contribute to this vital mission, as part of our broader commitment to the wellbeing of the public at large.” Patients’ Aid Foundation has been instrumental in transforming JPMC into a state-of-the-art hospital, offering modern healthcare facilities to economically disadvantaged patients nationwide, completely free of charge.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Faysal Bank and Patients’ Aid Foundation are excited to announce the ‘Faysal Bank x Patients’ Aid – Bike A Cause’ event, aimed at raising funds for the treatment of marginalized Thalassemia patients at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC). The event will take place on Sunday, August 25, 2024, and will see the Karachi Cyclists Community riding to JPMC to show their solidarity with Patients’ Aid Foundation.

This partnership highlights Faysal Bank’s commitment to supporting Patients’ Aid Foundation, which has been instrumental in transforming public healthcare at JPMC. Since its inception in 1990, Patients’ Aid Foundation has revolutionized JPMC, making it a state-of-the-art hospital that provides free, world-class healthcare to economically disadvantaged patients from across Pakistan.

 Mr. Mushtaq Chhapra, Chairman of Patients’ Aid Foundation, shared his enthusiasm: “This event will unite cycling enthusiasts and the community while raising awareness about the healthcare revolution at JPMC. Our work has enabled advanced, free healthcare for thousands of patients daily, including 12,000 patients visiting OPD and 2,000 patients in the A&E every day. In the fiscal year 2023-24, we facilitated over 12,000 free dialysis sessions, 25,000 quality childbirths, 11,000 cancer treatments, and 782,000 free radiological diagnostics.”

 The event aims to gather support for this noble cause, ensuring that free, quality treatment remains accessible to Thalassemia patients across Karachi, interior Sindh, Balochistan, and other rural areas.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

In a heartfelt demonstration of its commitment to environmental sustainability and community welfare, inDrive, a leading ride-hailing company in Pakistan, proudly launched its “Tide of Care” campaign, a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative focused on cleaning up Karachi’s Sandspit and Turtle Beach on Pakistan’s Independence Day. This initiative, held in partnership with WWF-Pakistan, underscores inDrive’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Pakistan’s coastal areas and fostering a cleaner, greener environment for future generations. The beach cleaning drive saw enthusiastic participation from inDrive employees, volunteers from educational institutes, celebrities and environmentalists who collectively removed plastic waste, including plastic bottles, discarded fishing nets, and other pollutants, from the shoreline. The event not only symbolized the company’s ongoing efforts to combat environmental degradation but also reflected its broader mission to support and uplift the communities it serves. Sidra Kiran, PR and Communications Manager for inDrive Pakistan, commented on the initiative: “At inDrive, we believe in leading by example. Our ‘Tide of Care’ campaign is not just about cleaning beaches; it’s about inspiring a sense of responsibility in every citizen to protect our environment. By partnering with WWF-Pakistan, we are able to amplify our impact and contribute to a sustainable future for our nation.” As part of the campaign, inDrive also distributed seeds for plantation to the participants, encouraging them to contribute to the reforestation efforts in their own communities. This initiative aligns with inDrive’s broader vision of climate change, focuses on sustainability, community engagement, and promotes environmental awareness. This Independence Day, inDrive has reaffirmed its commitment to being a force for good, not only by providing exceptional services but also by leading initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of Pakistanis and the environment. The success of the “Tide of Care” campaign is a testament to what can be achieved when businesses and communities work together towards a common goal. Through the “Tide of Care” project inDrive once again positions itself as a leader in corporate responsibility within Pakistan, creating awareness, building communities, and strong partnership.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

The 21st  edition of Pharma Asia, the leading pharmaceutical exhibition in the region, was inaugurated today at the Expo Centre in Karachi. Organized by E-Commerce Gateway, the event showcases the latest advancements and innovations in the pharmaceutical industry.

Chairman PPMA, Mian Khalid Misbah Ur Rehman was the chief guest at Pharma convention  He engaged with representatives from both national and international companies, demonstrating his keen interest in the innovations on display.

Pharma Asia 2024 has attracted more than 200 companies, featuring their latest products and services across 750 booths. With delegates and exhibitors from 15 countries, including a prominent pavilion from China, the event is a vibrant hub of activity and networking, offering unparalleled opportunities for international collaboration and business development.

Dr. Khursheed Nizam, President of Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Pharma Asia 2024 is more than just an exhibition; it is a platform for shaping the future of the pharmaceutical industry in Pakistan and beyond. We are thrilled to host such a diverse and dynamic event that not only showcases the latest innovations but also fosters meaningful collaborations and partnerships.”

Dr. Nizam also extended his appreciation to the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers’ Association (PPMA) for their unwavering support. “The PPMA has played a crucial role in championing industry standards and advocating for advancements, which has been instrumental in our collective success,” he added.

The growth of the pharmaceutical industry is further supported by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), whose initiatives have created a conducive environment for investment and expansion. The SIFC’s efforts have significantly contributed to the industry’s upward trajectory, attracting both local and international investments. Pharma Asia will continue till August 22.

Sindh Occupational Diseases & Injuries Surveillance System Project Takes Off in Karachi.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)  The Department of Community Health Sciences at Aga Khan University (AKU) hosted a dissemination seminar for the piloting of the “Sindh Occupational Diseases and Injuries Surveillance System” (SODISS). The project, conducted in collaboration with the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI), marked a significant step towards initiating occupational health surveillance in Pakistan.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between SESSI and AKU for this pilot project, which allowed the development and implementation of a simple, digital surveillance system at SESSI hospitals in Karachi. This system enabled physicians to accurately record occupational diseases and injuries among registered workers, contributing to the development of the first industry-specific occupational health data registry in Pakistan.

Dr. Asaad Ahmed Nafees, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator of the SODISS project, provided an overview of the project, highlighting key findings and discussing the way forward. “This project represents a critical step in understanding the health challenges faced by workers in key industries across Karachi. The data we gathered will be instrumental in shaping future occupational health policies and interventions,” said Dr. Nafees.

The event was attended by senior leadership from SESSI, including Commissioner SESSI, Mr Miandad Rahoojo, who appreciated the research work conducted by the team. He reinforced the need for high quality data to assess the impact of poor safety standards and SOPs at workplaces; and emphasized collaboration for prevention through mass awareness and provision of the required occupational health and safety measures. “The collaboration between SESSI and AKU has opened new avenues for improving worker health and safety in Sindh. The data collected through SODISS will be helpful not only for better decision-making at SESSI but will also enable us to take informed actions for the protection of our workforce,” stated Commissioner Rahoojo.

Also in attendance were Ex-Medical Advisor SESSI, Dr. Azam Sulheri, representatives from the Labour Department, Government of Sindh, and ILO, and several occupational health experts including Prof Mohamed Jeebhay from the University of Cape Town.

Deputy Director Labour Department, Government of Sindh, Mr. Javed Ahmed, underscored the significance of the project for the broader labour community. “The SODISS initiative is a groundbreaking effort that will help us better understand occupational diseases that our workers suffer from. The data and insights gained from this project will be crucial in developing  better health and safety regulations, that will benefit countless workers across Sindh”.

The project successfully collected data from two thousand patients, analyzing diseases and injuries among workers; some high-risk industries that were identified include auto workshops, tire and glass factories, soap and detergents industry, and flour mills. Next steps, include scaling-up such efforts at the provincial and national level, augmented by targeted surveys in high-risk industries, as well as sustained efforts for the prevention of occupational diseases and injuries according to the local context.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Sehat Kahani, a leading digital healthcare platform in Pakistan, proudly announces the launch of its new Home Healthcare vertical. This innovative service aims to bring high-quality healthcare directly to patients’ homes, ensuring convenience, personalized care, and better health outcomes.

Commenting on the development, CEO Sehat Kahani, Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram said, “We are thrilled to launch our Home Healthcare services. This service will offer comprehensive plans for chronic, acute, and palliative patients according to their needs, ensuring their daily healthcare, medicines, and vitals can be checked on the phone with just a few clicks. Our goal is to make healthcare accessible and convenient for everyone, especially those who find it challenging to visit healthcare facilities”.

Furthermore, COO Sehat Kahani, Dr. Iffat Zafar Aga added, “Our Home Healthcare service is designed to provide comprehensive medical care in the comfort of your home. Along with at-home nurse visits, we are also offering at-home visits by doctors, which is unique and ensures quality healthcare delivery. This holistic approach includes physical and psychological care with the involvement of doctors and psychologists, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care.”

Guest of Honor, CEO, Indus Hospital & Health Network Dr. Abdul Bari remarked, “The launch of Sehat Kahani’s Home Healthcare services marks a significant milestone in improving healthcare accessibility. Many patients and their attendants often prefer staying admitted due to the fear of not being able to provide the required care at home, making them vulnerable to infections. Sehat Kahani Home Healthcare is poised to address this concern, ensuring patients receive quality care in the comfort of their homes, thereby reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections.”

Other than the Guest of Honor, the launch event was graced by esteemed attendees including the Chairman House of Altimi, Ex. Secretary Health & Ex. Secretary Education Dr. Fazlullah Pechuho, Managing Partner Amaanah Circle Dr. Razi Yousuf, and Head of Sales & Marketing Jubilee General Nadeem Irshad who have all shown immense support for this new initiative.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Khushhali Microfinance Bank Limited (KMBL), Pakistan’s first specialized microfinance bank, has recently partnered with oladoc to promote healthcare services for their customers. oladoc, a leading digital healthcare platform in Pakistan, is dedicated to making healthcare accessible, convenient, and affordable for everyone. Through its user-friendly app and website, oladoc offers patients a wide range of healthcare services. This partnership will enable KMBL customers to access a vast network of over 25,000 doctors via the oladoc app, website, and tele-helpline.

The collaboration will facilitate KMBL customers to book appointments, video OPD consultations with specialist doctors, and avail discounts on medical services such as lab tests, medicine delivery, and surgeries. The agreement was signed by Mr Aameer Karachiwalla, President & CEO KMBL, and Co-Founder & CEO of oladoc, Mr. Abid Zuberi. The signing ceremony was also attended by senior leadership from KMBL & oladoc – Mr. Saleem Akhtar Bhatti, Group Head Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Mr Muhammad Aftab Alam, Chief Business Officer, Ms. Saira Gabol, Chief Human Resource Officer, Mr Kashif Ahmed Khan, Head Liability and ADC Sales and Mr Syed Ali Sherazi, Head of Commercial at oladoc.

Commenting on the occasion, the President and CEO of KMBL said, “This is truly a very good value added service for KMBL customers. We believe that every citizen has the right to quality healthcare, and through this agreement, KMBL is committed to simplifying access to medical services, making healthcare more convenient and affordable for our customers.”

Co-Founder & CEO oladoc, Mr. Abid Zuberi, added, “Our partnership with KMBL is a strategic step forward to make healthcare accessible and affordable for all individuals. This partnership will not only help us reach the underprivileged communities across Pakistan, but will also empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.”

This is a significant stride forward for KMBL’s mission to provide access to quality healthcare for its customers and reaffirms its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which promotes healthy lives and well-being for individuals of all ages. The collaboration between KMBL and oladoc is expected to yield mutual benefits, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase general well-being of the community by leveraging KMBL’s extensive customer base.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

foodpanda Pakistan announced a significant partnership with QJ Diagnostic, a renowned medical lab in Islamabad/Rawalpindi and a sister concern of CitiLab, to enhance the health and well-being of its dedicated delivery riders. Through this collaboration, foodpanda and QJ Diagnostic set up free Hepatitis-C medical camps, demonstrating a strong commitment to rider health and safety.

Led by Mr. Zubair Nasir, CEO of QJ Diagnostic, this initiative is poised to make a substantial impact. Hepatitis C medical camp, organised at F-8 and Saddar hubs in Islamabad, offered ICT Hepatitis-C and Hepatitis-C PCR tests, and comprehensive treatment free of charge.

Muntaqa Peracha, Managing Director of foodpanda Pakistan, stated, “Our riders are the backbone of our operations, and their health and well-being are of great importance to us. This partnership with QJ Diagnostic allows us to provide essential medical services to our delivery riders, ensuring they remain healthy and capable of serving our customers efficiently. We are grateful to QJ Diagnostic for their support and dedication in this initiative.”

Zubair Nasir, CEO of QJ Diagnostic, also commented on the occasion of the partnership, “QJ Diagnostic was founded in loving memory of my late mother, Qamar Jahan Begum, with a mission to eradicate Hepatitis C from Pakistan. Over the past eight months, we have conducted tests for more than 9,000 underprivileged individuals, including foodpanda riders, and provided treatment for over 400 patients, who tested positive, in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Our commitment is unwavering as we continue to make a significant impact on public health and improve lives across Pakistan.”

QJ Diagnostic boasts a proven track record of providing Hepatitis-C testing and treatment to various esteemed organisations, including NAB, FIA, ANF (Anti Narcotic Force), BMW, Toyota Motors, Marriott Hotel, and many more.

This partnership underscores foodpanda’s ongoing commitment to the health and well-being of its riders, recognising their crucial role in the company’s success. By providing these essential medical services, foodpanda and QJ Diagnostic aim to support the health of the riders and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

Karachi (Nut Desk)

Dawood Global Foundation (DGF) has demonstrated unwavering commitment to community well-being through a generous donation of wheelchairs to Lyari General Hospital in Karachi. This substantial contribution is set to significantly enhance the mobility and comfort of patients facing mobility challenges. The emotionally charged distribution ceremony took place at Lyari General Hospital, arranged by Dr. Mansoor Rafi, Project Lead, DGF, and Professor Dr. Anjum Rehman, Principal, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College Lyari General Hospital. Ms. Tara Uzra Dawood, President, and Noman Shakir, CFO, of DGF, personally met with every recipient and gifted the wheelchairs. Sweet gestures like tossing of rose petals and placement of rose garlands on recipients created a fun, happy atmosphere full of love and joy. Tara Uzra Dawood stated, “At Dawood Global Foundation, we are committed to creating a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Through these wheelchairs, we aspire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals in the Lyari area as well as patients at Lyari General Hospital, while supporting the commendable work of healthcare professionals.” Dr. Mansoor Rafi, Project Lead, Dawood Global Foundation, said “This was an impactful distribution of paraphelgic individuals in the Lyari area as well as wheelchairs distributed to Lyari General Hospital. We selected these recipients based on their need and the benefit distribution would be on their lives.” Professor Dr. Anjum Rehman, Principal, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College Lyari General Hospital, said “We are thankful to Dawood Global Foundation for their generosity and look forward to more contributions from them to our worthy hospital.” “I am thankful to Dawood Global Foundation for giving me this wheelchair. Now I am able to move between my home and job, in fact, anywhere easily. Thanks again from the depths of my heart,” said Muhammad Hanif (translated from Urdu). “I am deeply thankful to the Dawood Global Foundation for providing me with this wheelchair. It has significantly improved my mobility, allowing me to move freely around my home. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for this invaluable support Thank you,” said Faisal Abbas (translated from Urdu). The wheelchairs play a pivotal role in advancing patient mobility and comfort, aligning seamlessly with Dawood Global Foundation’s commitment to bolstering healthcare institutions and ensuring individuals facing mobility challenges receive the necessary care and resources, and are part of DGF’s drive to distribute 10,000 wheelchairs across Pakistan.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) has received the Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2024. This is an award by the American College of Cardiology’s (ACC) National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR). It places the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi among the world’s top hospitals for offering high-quality cardiac care to heart attack patients.

The Chest Pain – MI Registry empowers healthcare providers to consistently treat cardiac patients using  the latest science-based guidelines. It establishes a national standard for better understanding and improving the quality, safety, and outcomes of care for patients with coronary artery disease, particularly those at high risk of heart attack.

This award recognises AKUH’s success in bringing a higher standard of care to heart attack patients. To receive the Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, the AKUH has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain – MI Registry and performed at the highest level on specific performance measures.

“This award reflects our dedication to delivering top-tier cardiac care to our patients. It reinforces our commitment to the health and well-being of our patients and the community. Our doctors, nurses and staff continue to strive for excellence to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of cardiovascular care,” said Dr Farhat Abbas, CEO, AKU Health Services, Pakistan.

Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process that uses data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients. AKUH has met ACC’s rigorous standards for treating heart attack patients, demonstrating AKUH’s commitment and dedication to continuous improvement in the quality of care and patient outcomes.

“This award is not only a recognition of our achievements but also a motivator for our future endeavours,” said Dr Javed Majid Tai, Director Cathlab and site Director for NCDR. “We remain committed to advancing our cardiac care services to provide top-quality, guideline-driven care for heart attack patients.”

This award serves as a catalyst for AKUH’s ongoing efforts to innovate and improve, ensuring that patients receive the best possible cardiovascular care. At AKUH, this recognition is a milestone in the journey towards excellence and, most importantly, as a motivator to further its mission of providing top-tier healthcare to the community.