LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Health Dr Yasmin Rashid says the government will take every possible step to enhance the capacity of bone marrow transplantation unit at Children’s Hospital and fast-track such units at Bahawalpur and Multan.

She was addressing a ceremony arranged in connection with successful bone marrow transplantation of 10 children at the Children’s Hospital.

Health Secretary Saqib Zaffar and Children’s Hospital Dean Prof Masood Sadiq were also present, says a handout.
“Last year it was mere a dream to conduct bone marrow transplantation in the Children’s Hospital but today it has become a reality,” said the minister.

Appreciating the role of Prof Masood Sadiq, she said the bone marrow unit had successfully developed “zero bacteria” environment which was necessary for patients. She said the Punjab government would consider Rs300 million additional grant for the bone marrow transplantation unit and cancer research centre at the Children’s Hospital.

“The 70-bed under-construction bone marrow unit at Bahawalpur and a small unit at Multan will be completed expeditiously,” she said.

Punjab Health Secretary Saqib Zaffar said the average cost of every case was Rs1.5m to Rs2m but not a single penny was charged from any patient.

He also thanked philanthropists for becoming a helping hand for the treatment of poor patients.

Prof Masood Sadiq reiterated the need for expansion in bone marrow unit and cancer research centre.

“Presently this unit has a capacity of 20 operation yearly but if the government approves the additional grant then the capacity can be increased,” he said.

Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2018