Telemedicine project saved approximately PKR 8 million in three months, health minister informed in meeting

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Apr, 2026) Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Syed Mustafa Kamal, on Monday chaired a high-level meeting to review the overall performance and impact of an ongoing telemedicine project.

The meeting was attended by the Sehat Kahani team, led by CEO Dr Sara Saeed Khurram, who briefed the minister on the financial aspects of the telemedicine project. She highlighted that the initiative resulted in an estimated cost saving of approximately PKR 8 million by reducing patient travel, avoiding expensive private consultations, and ensuring timely access to medicines and treatment.

During the meeting, CEO also presented a comprehensive briefing on the three-month performance of Sehat Kahani’s telemedicine integration across Basic Health Units (BHUs) in Islamabad and dispensaries in Karachi. She noted that the project has been successfully implemented across eight facilities, serving thousands of patients through both general and specialist consultations.

The briefing outlined that key specialties included gynecology, pediatrics, and dermatology, with the highest patient volumes recorded in the 0–9 and 20–49 age groups.

Notably, 65% of the beneficiaries were women, reflecting improved access to healthcare services for women.

Under this initiative, 15 major disease areas were effectively managed. A significant increase in patient footfall was observed, particularly in previously underutilized and remote facilities.

The telemedicine model enabled timely access to specialist care within communities, reducing delays and improving the overall quality of care.

On the occasion, the Federal Minister for Health appreciated the efforts of the Sehat Kahani team and termed the initiative a significant step towards strengthening Primary healthcare delivery in Pakistan.

He emphasized that the integration of technology in healthcare is essential to expand access, particularly in underserved and remote areas.

The Minister further directed that such innovative and impactful models should be scaled up across the country to ensure equitable, affordable, and quality healthcare services for all citizens.