15/10/2025
Boosting Healthcare in Punjab: World Bank Joint Mission Applauds Visible Progress in Punjab's NHSP.
“We have phased the outsourcing of BHUs and RHCs against clear performance indicators, expanded diagnostics and minor surgical services, and strengthened the referral chain from community to secondary care,” said Dr. Jahanzeb Hussain, Additional Secretary (Admin) and Project Director, NHSP Punjab, while opening the Joint Implementation Support Mission.
He added, “Competency-based training, supportive supervision, and standard treatment protocols are improving governance. District dashboards for real-time visibility, tighter stock management, and citizen feedback mechanisms are helping us lift service quality across facilities.”
The Joint Mission, led by Jahanzaib Sohail, Task Team Leader and Senior Health Economist, World Bank, reviewed progress on the National Health Support Programme (NHSP) Punjab with over 20 partner agencies. The mission assessed project development objectives, reviewed agreed actions from the previous mission, and developed a time-bound plan to address key implementation challenges.
Capt. (R) Dr. Usman Ali Khan presented a comprehensive implementation update, underscoring delivery discipline and focus on reliable primary care, timely referrals, and measurable improvements in patient experience. He emphasized that strong coordination among the Health and Population Department, local governments, and development partners remains essential for sustained results.
Programme heads from the department shared updates on their respective DLIs, business plans, and implementation progress, including Dr. Samra Khurram (EPI), Dr. Qasim (TB Control Programme), Dr. Farrukh Amin (MNHC), Khalid Sharif (HISDU), Sarfraz Ahmed (Development Wing), and Karamat Ali (Communication Specialist, NHSP).
The mission appreciated the department’s progress and recognized visible improvements at both facility and community levels. Jahanzaib Sohail acknowledged the strong reform momentum, while Michael Kent Ranson, Senior Economist, World Bank, commended the teams’ commitment and measurable outcomes in health service delivery.
Senior representatives from the World Bank, Global Financing Facility (GFF), The Gates Foundation, GAVI, The Global Fund, and FCDO attended the mission and shared valuable insights.
🎥 A short documentary on NHSP Punjab was also presented during the session — receiving high appreciation from the World Bank Task Team Lead and all partner agencies.
