Cancer Treatment Project in Pakistan Faces Bureaucratic Delays

In Pakistan, the fight against cancer is facing a significant setback. A crucial project aimed at providing free cancer treatment to patients has hit a snag due to bureaucratic hurdles within the Ministry of Health. This initiative, which was expected to kick off this financial year, has been delayed by a year because the ministry could not finalize the necessary paperwork in time. The project, valued at Rs2.87 billion, was designed to offer free cancer treatment to patients in Islamabad, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and other federally administered territories.

According to official documents, an international Swiss company had pledged Rs2 billion for the project, which includes the provision of medicines. The federal government was supposed to cover the remaining Rs870 million. However, despite assurances from the Ministry of Development and Planning to include this vital project in next year’s Public Sector Development Program (PSDP), the delay has put the aid from the Swiss company on hold. This has effectively frozen the much-needed funds for the project.

Once implemented, this project is expected to provide free treatment to 741 cancer patients over a five-year period, focusing particularly on those suffering from breast, lung, and liver cancers. Each year, around 150 patients are anticipated to benefit from this facility, with over one million rupees allocated per patient for treatment. Initially, the project was set to run from July 2024 to June 2029, but with the current delays, it is now likely to commence in the next financial year.

The delay has raised concerns among stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups. Many are hopeful that the project will receive the necessary support to move forward next year. The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, as it represents a significant step towards improving cancer care in Pakistan, where many patients struggle to afford treatment.

While the bureaucratic delays are frustrating, it is crucial for the government and relevant authorities to prioritize this project. The health and well-being of countless patients depend on timely action. As the nation awaits further developments, it is a reminder of the importance of efficient governance in addressing critical health issues.