Islamabad has witnessed a major step forward in healthcare development with the launch of the Pakistan National Medical Tourism Initiative under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
The announcement came during the 30th Annual International Conference of the Pakistan Association of Plastic Surgeons (PAPS) marking a significant milestone for the country’s surgical and medical landscape.
The three-day conference, led by Prof Dr Abdul Khaliq Malik of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), brought together more than 400 delegates and 12 international experts despite regional challenges.
The event served as a major scientific platform featuring research presentations, advanced lectures and live surgical workshops. A special focus was placed on non-invasive aesthetic procedures such as Botox, fillers and fat grafting giving participants hands-on exposure to global trends.
Renowned international experts from Germany, UK, China, Egypt, Türkiye, Argentina and Saudi Arabia participated in highlighting growing global collaboration in Pakistan’s medical sector.
Officials said the initiative aims to position Pakistan as a regional hub for affordable, high-quality reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. The launch ceremony was attended by senior government and military officials reflecting strong institutional backing.
During the conference, new leadership of PAPS was also announced with Prof Dr Mazhar Nizam taking office as president. Senior figures in the field were recognised for their contributions to advancing plastic surgery in Pakistan.
Separately, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal reviewed progress on telemedicine services with the Sehat Kahani team led by CEO Dr Sara Saeed Khurram.
The initiative has been rolled out across eight facilities including basic health units in Islamabad and dispensaries in Karachi providing thousands of patients with access to general and specialist consultations.
Key services include gynaecology, paediatrics and dermatology with women making up 65% of beneficiaries a sign of improved healthcare accessibility.
Officials reported that the telemedicine programme has saved an estimated Rs8 million by reducing travel costs limiting reliance on expensive private care and enabling timely treatment.
The conference concluded with a commitment to strengthen international academic partnerships and further establish Pakistan as an emerging leader in medical innovation and healthcare delivery.
Keywords:
Pakistan medical tourism, SIFC healthcare initiative, plastic surgery conference Pakistan, Sehat Kahani telemedicine, Islamabad health news, Mustafa Kamal health reforms, Pakistan healthcare innovation, medical tourism Asia, telehealth Pakistan, PIMS conference
Asian Burg | Health Desk
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