ISLAMABAD: Stakeholders of health and climate sectors on Tuesday deliberated to improve primary healthcare services by sharing government experiences and addressing health system vulnerabilities caused by climate change.

According to a statement, the event was organised by the Ministry of National Health Services together with Integrity and supported by the British High Commission.

Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Mukhtar Bharth, federal and provincial secretaries of health, British High Commission’s Development Director Jo Moir, World Bank’s Practice Manager Feng Zhao attended the event.

Dr Bharat said strengthening primary healthcare and commitment to universal health coverage, development of integrated health information systems and urgent challenges posed by climate change must be at the forefront of the collective agenda.

“This learning event represents a critical juncture for Pakistan’s health sector, where we bring together diverse stakeholders from across the country to forge innovative solutions and strengthen our primary healthcare services and commitment to UHC by sharing successful practices across all provinces,” he said.

Jo Moir emphasised UK’s strong support for Pakistan’s health sector reforms towards universal health coverage (UHC).

“We’ve engaged in an extraordinary exchange of ideas and practices across provinces, bolstering our joint commitment to robust primary healthcare systems and climate resilience. Together, we are building a foundation that not only advances healthcare but also equips Pakistan to face future challenges, ensuring that every citizen has access to the health services they deserve without financial hardship. We are committed to working with the Government of Pakistan and our partners to translate these discussions into tangible improvements in health outcomes,” she noted.

Dr Feng Zhao, WB’s Practice Manager for South Asia Region Health, Nutrition and Population Global Practice, said: “Each province is trying out various innovative solutions towards achieving UHC in respective contexts. This event facilitated policy makers to learn from each other and scale up best practices to achieve primary healthcare objectives. Quality primary healthcare is the foundation to improve maternal and child health and nutrition which will contribute to the reduction of child stunting, one of the core objectives of the new World Bank Country Partnership Framework for Pakistan for the next decade”.

Muhib Farooqui, Principal Manager at Integrity Global, said: “Integrity is honoured to support the British High Commission and Ministry of National Health Services to gather key stakeholders. It underscores our shared commitment to strengthen health systems that are resilient, inclusive, and equitable. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we aim to pave the way for sustainable health reforms that will benefit all citizens. I am confident that together, we can build a healthier future for Pakistan”.

Published in Dawn, February 19th, 2025