Pakistan’s healthcare landscape has experienced a fascinating transformation, one that holds promise for the well-being of millions. The increasing involvement of the private sector in healthcare is ushering in a wave of positive change, driving improvements in accessibility, quality, and innovation. This is set to revolutionise the way healthcare is delivered and experienced across the nation.
One of the most significant advantages of the private sector’s expanding role in healthcare is enhanced accessibility. As private healthcare providers establish clinics, hospitals, and diagnostic centers in urban and rural areas alike, individuals previously hindered by distance and limited medical resources now have easier access to essential medical services. This burgeoning network of private healthcare facilities helps bridge the gap, offering timely and efficient care to those who need it most This, coupled with competition and the pursuit of excellence, prompted investment in state-of-the-art medical technologies, recruitment of skilled professionals, and the adoption of best practices.
The result? A higher standard of care that resonates across medical specialties, raising the overall quality of healthcare available to Pakistanis while minimizing the cost through philanthropic efforts.
Furthermore, the rise of the private sector in healthcare is creating employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth. The expansion of private healthcare facilities demands a skilled workforce, ranging from medical professionals to administrative staff. This job creation not only reduces unemployment rates but also bolsters the nation’s economy.
Cancer Foundation Hospital a flagship project of The Cancer Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation registered with Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under section 42 of The Companies Ordinance, 1984. The Cancer Foundation Hospital located in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi, provides cancer treatment to deserving patients at a fair price.
At the heart of The Cancer Foundation’s mission is the unwavering dedication to leveling the healthcare playing field. However, the Cancer Foundation is reshaping that narrative by offering a range of medical services, from diagnostics to treatment, at affordable rates or 100% subsidized for deserving patients.
Since it was established in 2017, Cancer Foundation Hospital has emerged as a cornerstone in Karachi’s healthcare landscape, tirelessly catering to the needs of numerous cancer patients through comprehensive diagnosis and cutting-edge treatment protocols. Distinguishing itself as a beacon of hope, the hospital’s primary focus lies in providing top-tier cancer care while remaining cognizant of the financial toxicities that often accompany medical treatments.
Cancer Foundation Hospital stands out in the city as one of the few hospitals dedicated to serving cancer patients. The hospital’s mission is to ensure that every patient, irrespective of their socio-economic background, can access quality care. To this end, the institution’s staff of highly trained medical professionals, specializing in various aspects of cancer treatment, is committed to delivering the finest care possible.
Cancer Foundation Hospital houses 100 inpatient beds, with 27 beds dedicated to critical care. The hospital also features 18 chemotherapy bays, 3 state-of-the-art endoscopy suites, and 3 operating rooms. For the convenience of outpatient care, the hospital has set up an outpatient clinic equipped with 12 examining suites.
The hospital’s radiology department stands as a proof to its commitment to cutting-edge technology. It installed the first 3D digital mammography unit in Pakistan, alongside offering a range of imaging services, including CT scans, ultrasounds, and conventional imaging. Radiation therapy and Histopathology lab are currently in the pipeline, as the hospital positions itself to become a comprehensive hub for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A defining feature of Cancer Foundation Hospital is its commitment to affordability. The hospital offers chemotherapy treatments at a substantial discount compared to prevailing market prices, ensuring that even the most economically challenged patients can access crucial treatments without compromising on quality.
In the field of surgical interventions, the hospital takes on the challenge of complex cancer surgeries involving the liver, pancreas, gut, gynecological, soft tissues, endocrine and head & neck malignancies. This comprehensive surgical approach is backed by an array of allied medical specialties including internal medicine, gastroenterology, nutrition, anesthesia and pain management, and palliative care, ensuring that patients receive holistic support throughout their treatment journey.
In a country where a large portion of the population faces financial constraints, access to quality healthcare can seem like a distant dream. By providing cost-effective medical services, the Cancer Foundation ensures that individuals from all walks of life can receive critical care without discrimination. This inclusivity fosters a sense of dignity and empowerment among patients who may have otherwise been marginalized by their socioeconomic status.
In conclusion, The Cancer Foundation’s commitment to providing affordable healthcare services is a beacon of hope that illuminates the lives of countless individuals in Pakistan. By breaking down financial barriers to medical care, the foundation is not only saving lives but also fostering a more equitable and compassionate society. As we celebrate its success and impact, we are reminded of the transformative power of accessible healthcare and the profound positive impact it can have on communities and the nation as a whole.
Dr. Abid Jamal is a CEO Cancer Foundation Hospital