KP Cabinet Approves Health Policy 2026 with Expanded Sehat Card Services

The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has approved the Health Policy 2026, introducing a series of reforms aimed at strengthening healthcare services and improving access to medical care across the province.

One of the major highlights of the new policy is the expansion of Outpatient Department (OPD) services under the Sehat Card program, enabling more residents to receive subsidized healthcare without hospital admission.

The policy also includes the launch of school health services, which are designed to support preventive healthcare, routine medical screenings and early detection of health issues among students.

To modernize the healthcare system, the provincial government plans to expand digital health technologies, strengthen monitoring systems and further activate the province’s healthcare regulatory framework to improve service delivery.

Additional support will also be provided to Basic Health Units (BHUs), maternal and child healthcare services and the Lady Health Workers Programme, with the aim of improving primary healthcare, particularly in underserved areas.

As part of efforts to strengthen emergency and specialized medical care, the government has approved the establishment of additional Intensive Care Units (ICUs), Critical Care Units (CCUs) and burn centers across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The policy further promotes the use of telemedicine, palliative care and geriatric healthcare while introducing initiatives to address shortages of doctors, nurses and paramedical staff.

In a separate decision, the provincial cabinet approved the Occupational Safety and Health Rules 2026. Under the new regulations, organizations employing 50 or more workers will be required to appoint safety and health officers and implement workplace safety measures, including emergency response procedures and first aid facilities.

The cabinet also approved the expansion of Sifat Ghayoor Shaheed Memorial Hospital to improve healthcare services for surrounding communities.

The new policy reflects the provincial government’s broader efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure, expand medical coverage and improve the quality of health services throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.