The Punjab government has officially decided to discontinue the use of the health card in all public sector hospitals starting June 30. According to sources, the health card will now only be valid at private hospitals, but even there, patients will be required to pay 50% of the treatment cost out-of-pocket.
Additionally, gynecology and eye-related surgeries will no longer be covered under the health card at private facilities. However, treatments for general surgeries, cardiac care, dialysis, and several other specified conditions will continue to be supported.
In light of this transition, the Punjab Health Initiative Management Company (PHIMC) has instructed all public hospitals to upload any pending claims related to health card services by June 30.
Addressing the change, Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique stated that all treatments in public hospitals are already being offered free of charge, which renders the health card redundant in these settings. He assured the public that government hospitals are fully funded and equipped with the necessary medicines and surgical supplies to serve patients at no cost.
The minister also emphasized that an effective alternative healthcare system is in place within public hospitals to ensure that no patient is left without treatment, even after the withdrawal of health card support in the public sector.
