Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a landmark initiative to establish state-of-the-art cardiac catheterisation laboratories in every district of Punjab, bringing life-saving heart care to citizens’ doorsteps.
On the directions of the chief minister, cardiac cath labs will soon become functional in Jhang, Mianwali and Vehari. These facilities will operate in district headquarters (DHQ) hospitals, a move described as unprecedented in Punjab’s healthcare history.
In the second phase of the project, cath labs will be activated in Bhakkar, Chakwal, Hafizabad, Khanewal, Mandi Bahauddin, Rajanpur and Toba Tek Singh. The expansion is part of a province-wide plan to ensure equal access to advanced cardiac care.
Advanced cardiac procedures
Each cath lab will offer angiography, angioplasty, and primary PCI facilities. According to the chief minister, the presence of these services at district hospitals will help prevent complications from heart diseases through timely intervention.
CM Maryam highlighted that establishing cath labs can save the life of a patient who reaches the hospital within 60 to 90 minutes of a heart attack. She said reaching a district cardiology centre within this crucial time frame can make the difference between life and death.
Faster emergency response, less travel
With district-level cardiac centres, heart attack patients will no longer need to travel to far-off major cities during emergencies.
The chief minister said the goal is to ensure that, in a heart emergency, patients can reach a district cardiology centre within nine minutes.
The chief minister stated that cath labs in every district will improve the overall healthcare system and significantly reduce the burden on major hospitals. She noted that few could have imagined heart disease treatment becoming possible at DHQ hospitals.
The CM has directed authorities to ensure the appointment of specialist and cardiac doctors at district hospitals. A special pay package has also been approved for doctors serving in district cardiac catheter labs to attract and retain skilled professionals.
Commitment to quality healthcare for all
“The state-of-the-art cardiac catheter labs will provide world-class treatment for heart diseases in line with international SOPs,” the chief minister said.
She reaffirmed her commitment to fulfilling the promise of providing the best and quality treatment facilities to every citizen of Punjab at their doorstep.
