Bilawal opens state-of-the-art NICVD OPD block, announces new NICH medical tower

Bilawal opens state-of-the-art NICVD OPD block, announces new NICH medical tower

KARACHI: Sindh’s healthcare system received two major boosts this week as the provincial government announced a new medical tower at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH) in partnership with the Edhi foundation, while Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari inaugurated a state-of-the-art outpatient department (OPD) block at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD). Both developments underscore Sindh’s strategy to strengthen tertiary healthcare through public investment, philanthropy, and public-private partnerships.

New medical tower at NICH to strengthen child healthcare

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah revealed that the new medical tower at NICH will cost USD 17 million, with USD 10 million already secured through philanthropic support led by Faisal Edhi. The remaining USD 7 million will be provided by the Sindh government after cabinet approval.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of the new emergency block at NICVD, attended by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho, hospital executives, and key philanthropists. CM Shah said the project reflects the province’s growing collaboration with healthcare partners and its commitment to strengthening child health services.

Post-18th amendment: Sindh’s long-term investment in tertiary care

CM Shah recalled the financial uncertainty that followed the 18th constitutional amendment when federal funding for NICH, IMCP, and NICVD was suddenly withdrawn. As finance minister at the time, he said the Sindh government took immediate action, approving fresh budgets for all three institutions.

At the time of devolution, the combined annual budget for nich, jmcp, and nicvd was Rs 1.9 billion. Today, that figure has risen to Rs 40 billion, reflecting the provincial government’s priority to deliver reliable, modern, and free-of-cost tertiary healthcare.

Philanthropy accelerates healthcare expansion

The Chief Minister Sindh praised long-standing philanthropic partners, particularly the Patient Aid Foundation, for their critical role in expanding services. He highlighted that Sindh’s policy of matching philanthropic contributions rupee-for-rupee has allowed rapid upgrades, including advanced towers and emergency expansions.

Recent examples include the foundation raising USD 20 million for the Jinnah Hospital emergency tower while requesting just USD 15 million in matching funds.

Bed capacity doubles, set to become one of the world’s largest networks

CM Shah said that 12 years ago, JPMC, NICVD, and NICH collectively housed 2,000 beds. Today, the capacity stands at 4,000 and is projected to reach 5,000 by 2028. The province now rivals some of the largest hospital systems worldwide, with bed capacity surpassing major hospitals in the US and UK.

Bilawal Bhutto opens new NICVD OPD block

At the same event, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari inaugurated the modern OPD block at NICVD Karachi. The upgraded facility is expected to increase patient flow and expand clinical services within what is already the world’s largest free cardiovascular care network.

Bilawal commended the Sindh government for proving that provinces can manage tertiary healthcare more effectively under the devolution framework. He renewed calls for tax reforms, arguing that provinces should be allowed to collect more taxes to support welfare and health programs. He noted that NICVD’s free cardiac care continues to benefit patients from all regions of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Azad Kashmir.

He also acknowledged the successful role of public-private partnerships, citing cyberknife services at Jinnah hospital supported by the Patient Aid Foundation and the Child Life Foundation’s emergency response network across 13 districts.

Karachi continues to attract patients and opportunities

Concluding the address, CM Shah noted that Karachi’s healthcare, education, and employment opportunities continue to attract people from across Pakistan. Despite challenges, he said the provincial government is committed to improving public services and strengthening the city as a hub of opportunity and innovation.

Stay informed and protect your health!

CLICK HERE TO JOIN Medical News Pakistan on WhatsApp for expert tips, health updates, and the latest medical research straight to your phone.