ADB shows interest in development of Punjab health sector

LAHORE: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Mission for Health Sector Consultation and Development has appreciated the steps taken for development of the sector and the reforms introduced by the Punjab government.

The ADB delegation, headed by Principal Health Specialist Sustainable Development and Climate Change Department Eduardo Banzon, called on Secretary Primary & Secondary Health Punjab Ali Jan Khan in his office on Thursday and discussed with him development of the health sector in the province.

The health secretary expressed interest in cooperation from the ADB in revamping the Drug Control Regime including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in pharmaceutical industry, warehousing practices, and public and private partnership in different fields.

The mission expressed its willingness for providing assistance to improve the system of minimum service delivery standards in the public sector hospitals and removing the gaps.

The mission leader said that the ADB was ready to help determine investment areas in addressing identified gaps in hospitals services.

It was decided to draft recommendations for a master plan for secondary hospitals in selected districts of Punjab to support implementation of the operational plan for health.

Health Specialist Central & West Regional Department Rouselle Lavado, Social Sector Specialist Pakistan Resident Mission Munir Abro and other office-bearers were included in the delegation.

The meeting was also attended by Project Director Policy & Strategic Planning Unit, Muhammad Khan Ranjha, Additional Secretary Technical Dr Asim Altaf, Deputy Secretary Dr Yadullah and others.