Category: Health

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) launched its Second Opinion service platform on Monday, February 12, 2024. With this launch, patients from across Pakistan and around the world will have access to the medical opinions of AKUH doctors, without having to consult them personally.

A second opinion is medical advice taken from a doctor other than the one who made the initial diagnosis or treatment plan for a patient. Patients may seek a second opinion to confirm their diagnosis, get assurance their treatment plan is optimal, explore different treatment options, or simply for peace of mind, especially when dealing with complex diseases.

AKUH’s Second Opinion service, hosted on the AKUH Pakistan website, provides a secure and user-friendly platform for individuals seeking medical opinions from AKUH without requiring a consultation. This technology-powered solution allows patients to access AKUH’s sought-after medical expertise, regardless of their location.

AKUH is a JCI-accredited comprehensive quaternary care hospital offering all services under one roof, with some of the best and most skilled and qualified doctors in the country. Therefore, patients can seek a second opinion on any disease or treatment plan, whether for adults and children. AKUH’s Second Opinion service provides various forms of second opinions, including but not limited to general second opinions, second opinions when surgery is recommended, a review of lab or radiology reports, and much more.

Dr. Farhat Abbas, CEO AKUH Karachi, underscores AKUH’s commitment to enabling informed healthcare decisions, stating, “We are dedicated to empowering individuals worldwide, ensuring access to the exceptional skills and experience of our specialists. I am excited to see the positive impact this service will have on patients dealing with complex medical challenges.”

This service provides a valuable avenue for patients who are confused or are seeking further assurance and is particularly beneficial for those navigating complex medical issues or challenging treatment plans. It offers assurance, clarity, and confidence to patients in making informed decisions about their healthcare. Even if individuals are consulting elsewhere, they can benefit from the exceptional skills and experience of AKUH specialists.

Patients can request a second opinion through a secure and user-friendly online platform hosted on the AKUH website. The process involves creating an account, logging in, providing medical details, and uploading relevant reports. Once received, an AKUH doctor meticulously reviews the case and the reports and within five working days, patients receive a detailed written report, empowering them with actionable insights and informed decision making. For those seeking further consultation, appointments can be conveniently scheduled through the AKUH Concierge Service or Contact Centre.

With the introduction of the Second Opinion service, AKUH continues to pioneer advances in healthcare delivery, allowing patients to make informed decisions and ensuring that quality care is accessible to all, regardless of where they live.

 

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

A ceremony, held at Islamabad today, marked the formal handover of the ambulances by Mr. Gyorgy Loncsar, CEO MOL Pakistan, to Deputy Commissioner Kohat, Dr. Azmat Wazir and Additional Deputy Commissioner Hangu, Faheed Khan, both represented the commissioner Kohat.

The event was attended by senior officials from both MOL Pakistan and the district administrations of Kohat and Hangu. MOL Pakistan Oil and Gas Company B.V. reaffirms its commitment to the well-being of community with the donation of two state-of-the-art ambulances to the district administrations of Kohat and Hangu. This initiative, a part of MOL’s Corporate Giving initiatives, aims to enhance and strengthen the local administration’s capacity to deliver on healthcare accessibility by ensuring fast-track transportation for patients across the Kohat district to the nearest medical facilities and enabling the health department to respond effectively to natural disasters and mass casualty incidents. Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Loncsar stated, “Since 1999, MOL Pakistan has actively engaged with the communities of its operational areas, focusing on uplifting local education, health, and communication infrastructure. This fresh donation aims to further build community resilience by facilitating emergency transportation for patients to the nearest medical facilities.” Deputy Commissioner Kohat read the message of Commissioner Kohat, Mr. Muhammad Abid Khan, expressing gratitude for the donation, “Local administration welcomes generous initiatives by corporate entities like MOL Pakistan, which enhance the capacity of local governments to handle unexpected crises We appreciate MOL Pakistan for this donation, as these ambulances will significantly improve our response to natural catastrophes.” MOL Pakistan, a fully owned subsidiary of MOL Group, has been operating in the country since 1999.

The company remains dedicated to prioritizing health and education for communities in its operational areas, conducting free medical and eye camps, and contributing IT equipment and academic books to schools and universities for the benefit of underprivileged students of all ages and backgrounds.

In a groundbreaking article published in the prestigious Nature Medicine journal, experts from various parts of the world collaborated to address evidence gaps for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in children and adolescents. Notable experts, including Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta and Dr Jai Das from the Institute for Global Health and Development at Aga Khan University (IGHD-AKU) in Pakistan, partnered with Dr Rehana Salam from the University of Sydney in Australia, Laura Lewis-Watts from the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Canada, Maryam Hameed Khan, currently pursuing her Master of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University in the United States, and Syed Saqlain Ali Meerza from IGHD-AKU. Dr Rehana Salam played a lead role in the study, conducting the research, while Dr Bhutta conceptualized, designed the study and secured financing.

The research, titled “An evidence gap map of interventions for noncommunicable diseases and risk factors among children and adolescents,” sheds light on the significant burden these diseases place on young lives and carry on in adulthood. These diseases include obesity, mental health conditions, type 1 diabetes, cancers, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases, and substance misuse, which collectively contribute to 41% of disability-adjusted life years related to NCDs among children and adolescents worldwide. Dr Rehana Salam adds, “Our research underscores the imperative of addressing the evidence gaps for non-communicable diseases in children and adolescents. By focusing on LMICs and collaborating across borders, we aim to pave the way for impactful interventions that can shape the health outcomes of the next generation.”

Dr Jai Das, Assistant Director at IGHD, emphasizes, “Childhood and adolescence provide a window of opportunity for targeting and improving behaviours and risk factors which can then lead to better health and hence productivity in adulthood.” Shockingly, the evidence on risk factors and interventions for this age group is alarmingly scarce and particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where approximately 70% of premature deaths result from health-related behaviours that originate in childhood and adolescence.

The study found that the treatment interventions on biomarkers and adverse events for NCDs appear to be well evidenced, while interventions for mental health conditions appear to be moderately evidenced, and interventions for obesity and substance misuse appear to be moderate to very low. There is a need to prioritize action to integrate NCD actions with the child health and survival agenda, extending from early childhood to adolescence. The study also suggests that future studies should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of digital and community-based delivery platforms, especially for preventing these conditions and focusing on marginalized and at-risk populations.

“This is the first of a series of Gap Maps conceptualized and initiated by our multi-country research group, focusing on what needs to be done to bridge the evidence divide that many LMICs face in addressing priority non-communicable diseases in children and adolescents, as only 3.8% studies were conducted in LMICs. We trust that these findings will stimulate action and implementation research in many countries confronting myriad challenges in the post-pandemic world,” says Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta, a Distinguished University Professor at IGHD-AKU.

The findings resonate with global health goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that call for a reduction in premature mortality from NCDs by one-third through prevention and management by 2030.

Groundbreaking Collaboration to Reduce Burden of Diabetes in Pakistan through Dream Diabetes and SMILE

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Considering the current economic challenges and to ensure access to healthcare, Getz Pharma and M.E.D Consultants signed an MOU for the project Dream Diabetes: SMILE (Simplifying the Life of People with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus). This initiative is designed to simplify the lives of underprivileged individuals living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) through free consultations, diagnostic tests, and Getz Pharma’s new insulin pen. This project will also provide comprehensive support, including peer assistance, educational activities and medical support, regardless of their financial, educational or socioeconomic backgrounds.

“With this collaboration, Getz Pharma and M.E.D Consultants aim to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by T1DM, fostering a community of support and knowledge for improved diabetes management. With the launch of our insulin pens, we aim to decrease the burden of diabetes and ensure that legacy meets convenience for people living with diabetes,” shared Dr. Jahanzeb Kamal, Senior Director Medical Affairs – Getz Pharma.

“Living with T1DM is an ongoing challenge for both children and adults, requiring daily management through insulin injections and blood sugar monitoring. In low-resource countries, such as Pakistan, the complexities of managing T1DM often surpass the means of the average family”, said Dr. Syed Abbas Raza, CEO – M.E.D Consultants, during the ceremony.

He added, “The primary aim of the project is to offer access to care and educational resources that empower individuals in their journey of managing T1DM.” Additionally, the project will extend capacity-building opportunities for healthcare professionals, enhancing their skills in T1DM management.

Under this project, 50 children living with T1DM will be sponsored for one year. The support will ensure they can lead healthy lives despite their economic challenges.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) Sehat Kahani, Pakistan’s leading digital healthcare platform, is forging a strategic alliance with EFU Health Insurance Ltd – Pakistan’s First Specialized Health Insurer, to extend online healthcare services to EFU Health’s covered members. This collaboration heralds a breakthrough for EFU Health enabling policyholders to connect with 24/7 available general physicians within 60 seconds. Additionally, policyholders can easily schedule online appointments with preferred specialists for personalized and specialized care.

This collaboration is poised to revolutionize healthcare accessibility and convenience for EFU Health’s covered members.

At the occasion, the Managing Director & CEO of EFU Health, Mr. Kamran Ansari remarked that “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to revolutionizing healthcare for our valued policyholders. Sehat Kahani’s expertise and commitment towards providing digital healthcare solutions making them accessible from anywhere, anytime. He further commented that, EFU Health will continue to strive towards quality healthcare services to its valuable customers.”

Furthermore, the CEO of Sehat Kahani, Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram added,

“Sehat Kahani believes in fostering a culture where health is prioritized, and this collaboration aligns seamlessly with our commitment to ensuring accessible and comprehensive healthcare for every individual. Through this partnership, policyholders can now connect with general physicians within seconds, schedule appointments with specialists, and benefit from the efficiency of electronic medical records and e-prescriptions.”

With positive anticipation, the COO of Sehat Kahani, Dr. Iffat Zafar Aga said,

“Our shared goal is to make quality healthcare accessible to all, and this collaboration is a significant stride in that direction. We look forward to a successful partnership with EFU Health, and together, we aim to elevate the health and well-being of their policyholders.”

 

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

In the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, while many businesses
struggled to stay afloat, a heartening story of resilience and
entrepreneurial spirit emerged from Lahore, Pakistan. Shamshad Ahmed,
the owner of a school canteen named POLA G LunchTime, faced daunting
challenges when schools shut down. His journey from near closure to
thriving success stands as a testament to the power of innovation and
collaboration in times of crisis.

The Onset of Crisis:

When the Pakistani government ordered schools to close to curb the
spread of COVID-19, Ahmed’s primary source of income came to an abrupt
halt. His business, once bustling with the energy of schoolchildren,
was suddenly quiet and deserted. Ahmed faced the stark reality of the
pandemic’s economic fallout, a narrative familiar to many small
business owners globally.

Turning Point: foodpanda’s Intervention:

As the pandemic redefined normalcy, foodpanda, a prominent player in
Pakistan’s food delivery industry, stepped in to bridge the gap for
home chefs and small business owners. Ahmed joined foodpanda’s
platform, transforming his business model to cater to a wider audience
beyond the school’s gates. This strategic pivot allowed POLA G
LunchTime to reach a broader customer base, offering comfort food in a
time of widespread discomfort.

Financial Empowerment by ABHI:

The story took a further positive turn with the intervention of ABHI,
Pakistan’s first financial wellness platform. In partnership with
foodpanda, ABHI offered financial assistance to small business owners,
including quick access to working capital. This support was crucial
for Ahmed, enabling him to scale up his operations and keep his
business afloat during the pandemic’s uncertain economic landscape.

Impact and Growth:

The collaborative effort between foodpanda and ABHI not only helped
Ahmed’s business survive but also thrive. The partnership is a
striking example of how innovative financial solutions can empower
entrepreneurs, leading to job creation and contributing to the broader
economic revival in Pakistan during challenging times. Ahmed’s story,
from the brink of closure to a flourishing enterprise, mirrors the
resilience and adaptability of small businesses worldwide.

Ahmed’s journey with POLA G LunchTime is more than a tale of
individual success; it’s a narrative about the strength of
collaborative efforts and the resilience of the human spirit in the
face of adversity. As the world grapples with the pandemic’s ongoing
challenges, stories like Ahmed’s offer hope and inspiration,
demonstrating that innovation and partnership can lead the way to
recovery and growth.

Testimonial link: https://youtu.be/ssIpaBIsTec

Sehat Kahani makes history as the first all-female led company from Pakistan to raise a 2.7 million $ Series-A funding round.

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In a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistan’s startup landscape,Sehat Kahani, a trailblazing female-led health-tech startup,has successfully closed a historic Series A 2.7 million dollars funding round.This landmark positions Sehat Kahani as the first all- female-led company in Pakistan to secure Series A funding.

Amaanah Circle, a Singapore-based health tech fund led by Dr. Razi Yousuf, spearheads the funding, joined by key investors including Epic Angels, a female-only investor collective,Cross Fund,USAID Investment Promotion Activity (IPA), Augmentor,Impact Investment Exchange(IIX) and the Elahi group of companies.

Dr.Razi Said “Sehat Kahani is an incredible health-tech story led by Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram and Dr. Iffat Zafar Aga. Amaanah Circle (Singapore) is proud to contribute to the subject matter expertise, and in upscaling regionally and globally to the overall vision of Sehat Kahani in the future of digital health and preventive healthcare.”

Founded by esteemed medical doctors Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram and Dr. Iffat Zafar Aga, Sehat Kahani’s innovative technology ensures a seamless virtual connection between doctors and patients within 60 seconds.The platform offers on-demand at-home or on-premise laboratory services and online medicine delivery, catering to a diverse nationwide patient base, including B2B clients, B2C consumers, and the underserved population in rural areas.

The unwavering support from USAID has been pivotal in Sehat Kahani’s growth, fueling innovation and enabling impactful expansion in the dynamic Pakistani digital health landscape.This support fosters a future where accessible healthcare solutions thrive.

Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram said,”This funding infusion marks a pivotal moment for Sehat Kahani. It will enable us to develop advanced features, including decision support systems, precision medicine tools, and predictive AI models to help our patients live fully by knowing their disease better.Grateful to our investors and programs such as Weraise for supporting our mission and championing female founders, setting a powerful example”.

Sehat Kahani extends its Corporate Application into a comprehensive OPD management solution, providing corporate employees and their families 24/7 hassle-free and cashless access to specialists, online medicine delivery, and efficient claims management. The holistic 360-degree well-being program for corporates emphasizes health promotion and preventative care. The Consumer Application, operational in over 310 cities and towns across Pakistan, integrates seamlessly into prominent banking and lifestyle platforms, ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare.

Dr.Iffat Zafar Aga said “Sehat Kahani has shown a significant average year on year growth of 141% in the last 3 years, overcoming the myth that telemedicine was only beneficial during covid as we have seen 5x cumulative growth in the number of consultations in the post covid era.This gives us the confidence to expand operations to other countries and take Sehat Kahani global as our next move for expansion”.

Sehat Kahani, known for empowering women doctors, has a global network of 7500+ healthcare professionals,serving 800+corporations and 62 e-health clinics nationwide.With 2.6 million consultations to date, the new funding aims to accelerate their mission, bridging healthcare gaps, empowering women in medicine, and expanding global impact.

Maaike from Epic Angels,the largest female-only investor collective in the APAC region, stated, “Sehat Kahani embodies what we seek in investments: strong potential for success and impactful innovation. We fully believe in Dr. Sara and Dr. Iffat’s leadership, envisioning Sehat Kahani as a beacon of innovation and a model for future healthcare solutions.”