In major step towards providing social security to its citizens, Punjab Government has set up 2,000 free medicine centers to provide free-of-cost medicines prescribed by the government doctors. Out of these, 660 centers also provide free medical testing facility to all the patients.
The government claimed that opening of 2000 free medicines centers and 660 diagnostic centers validate its commitment towards healthcare.
“In a bid to provide equitable access to good quality healthcare to all, Punjab government has taken many path-breaking initiatives. State government invested Rs 8,655 crore on healthcare between 2007-2016. With these centers, we shall ensure that not only the drugs of high quality are provided, all the tests are conducted in a hassle-free manner,” said Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal.
Each diagnostic centre is equipped with the computer and internet facility. All testing centres are fully equipped with laboratory equipment, refrigerator and furniture for carrying out testing and storage of the medicines.
As many as 218 medicines, included in the Essential Drug list (EDl), are provided free of cost and 50 generally required tests which include 40 blood, six urine, sputum, stool and other pathology tests are done free of cost. The result of the tests is reported through SMS to the patient or attendant.
Besides, Punjab government undertook various other welfare initiatives like Chief Minister Relief Fund for Cancer and Hepatitis-C and Cashless health insurance for farmers, industrial laborers, small-scale traders, government employees and pensioners.