Children’s Heart Surgery Programme: Over 500 Lives Saved Across Punjab
— November 10, 2024
LAHORE (AIA) The Chief Minister’s Children’s Heart Surgery Programme has successfully completed heart surgeries on 530 children, significantly reducing the long-standing waiting list for these critical procedures. This milestone was highlighted during a briefing held on Sunday, where officials reported on the programme’s progress.
The surgeries are being conducted in six government and eight private hospitals, with operations tracked via a centralised dashboard to ensure timely care. So far, approximately 4,500 children have been referred for treatment in Punjab. To date, all surgeries and interventional cardiology procedures under the programme have been successful, with patients showing positive recovery outcomes.
Children’s cardiac surgeries are being performed at several key centres, including Children’s Hospital and cardiology institutes in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi, as well as four private hospitals in Lahore, three in Multan, and one in Islamabad.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reaffirmed her commitment to the programme, emphasising the importance of children’s health. “Every child’s life is precious, and we are committed to saving these lives,” she said. “Efforts are underway to expand the programme, ensuring treatment for children not only from Punjab but also from other provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).”
The chief minister acknowledged the shortage of specialised heart surgeons and trained support staff, noting that efforts are being made to strengthen the capacity of children’s hospitals. “We are working to ensure that every child suffering from cardiovascular disease receives timely care,” she added.