Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a groundbreaking Bone Marrow Transplant Card to support patients in need of life-saving treatments. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers for families, ensuring every child in Punjab receives critical care. Over 150 successful transplants have already been performed at Lahore’s Children’s Hospital, with the government covering costs exceeding Rs 4.2 million per procedure.
Key Features of the Bone Marrow Programme
Here’s what makes this initiative revolutionary:
- Free Treatment: Full financial coverage for bone marrow transplants.
- Transplant Card: Simplifies access to care by reducing paperwork and costs.
- High Success Rate: 89% success rate, matching global standards.
- Post-Operative Care: Free medicines and follow-up checkups every 15 days.
- Inclusive Reach: Patients from Sindh, Balochistan, and even Afghan children are treated free of charge.
Achievements of Lahore’s Children’s Hospital
- First Public Facility in Pakistan: Exclusive bone marrow transplant services in the public sector.
- 1-Year Impact:
- 2,000 cancer patients treated.
- 25,000+ children served through outpatient services.
- Global Recognition: International teams and families have praised the hospital’s standards.
How the Bone Marrow Transplant Process Works?
- Eligibility Check: Open to all children, regardless of financial status.
- Government Funding: The Punjab government covers 100% of costs.
- Post-Treatment Care: Regular follow-ups and free medications.
- Transplant Card: Streamlines access to services across the province.
Comparison: Pakistan vs. International Standards
| Criteria | Punjab’s Programme | International Standards |
|---|---|---|
| Success Rate | 89% | 85–90% |
| Cost per Procedure | Rs 4.2 million (free) | 200,000–200,000–400,000 (approx.) |
| Post-Operative Care | Free medicines & checkups | Often additional costs |
Additional Initiatives by CM Maryam Nawaz
To promote community well-being, the Punjab government has expanded cultural and recreational activities:
- Sports Events: Polo, Buzkashi, archery, and horse riding competitions.
- Cultural Festivals: Showcasing Gilgit-Baltistan traditions, Dog Shows, and Flower Exhibitions.
- Family Entertainment: Children’s Festivals and rare vehicle displays in Lahore.
Maryam emphasized, “Every child is more precious to me than my own. Free treatment is the right of every patient.”
Conclusion
Maryam Nawaz’s Bone Marrow Transplant Programme is a lifeline for thousands of children, offering world-class healthcare free of cost. Coupled with cultural and recreational activities, this initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to holistic child welfare. As Dr. Masood Sadiq (VC, University of Child Health Sciences) stated, “No child will be denied treatment due to poverty.” With the transplant card and expanded services, Punjab sets a new standard for public healthcare in South Asia.
