Punjab Launches Free Cancer & Cardiac Treatment Cards. Punjab has announced one of its biggest healthcare relief programs, giving hope to thousands of families struggling with cancer and heart diseases. The new Free Cancer and Cardiac Treatment Cards will cover treatment costs of up to Rs 1 million, ending the painful cycle where families sell property or valuables to afford medical care.
This bold move reflects the provincial government’s renewed focus on accessible, modern, and free treatment for life-threatening illnesses.
Punjab New Health Relief Program: What It Means for Patients
Free Treatment for Cancer & Heart Patients
Under the CM Special Initiative Cancer Patient Card and the Cardiac Surgery Program, patients will receive:
- Up to Rs 1 million free treatment
- Cashless medical procedures
- Access to advanced cancer and cardiac care
- Treatment at designated institutes and hospitals across Punjab
In the first phase, around 45,000 patients will benefit from these cards.
Why This Program Matters
Cancer and heart diseases are among the biggest financial burdens for families. A single surgery or chemotherapy session can cost several lakh rupees — costs many people simply cannot bear.
This initiative ensures:
- No family has to sell jewelry, land, or savings
- Free access to life-saving treatments
- Fast-track care at specialized institutes
- Reduced waiting times for surgeries
Approval by CM Maryam Nawaz
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz approved the launch of both treatment cards as part of a major healthcare overhaul.
She directed health officials to ensure:
- Speedy registration of patients
- Smooth card issuance
- Availability of medicines and diagnostic tests
- Transparent monitoring of the program
New Programs for Stroke, Cancer & Heart Care
Punjab is also expanding its healthcare services with new emergency care programs.
Upcoming Additions Include:
- Timely stroke treatment program
- Activation of Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment OPD by January 17
- Full operation of Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cardiology Sargodha by January 31
- Launch of Jinnah Institute of Cardiology Lahore by February 15
These institutes will support advanced surgeries, diagnostics, and critical care.
Massive Recruitment to Improve Health Services
To strengthen hospital capacity, the government has approved major hiring:
- 219 posts for Cancer Institute
- 258 posts for Sargodha Cardiology Institute
- 1,104 posts for Jinnah Institute of Cardiology Lahore
This recruitment will improve patient flow, reduce delays, and provide better specialist care.
Punjab Hospital Performance in the Last 11 Months
Punjab’s public hospitals have seen record numbers of patients. The latest official data shows strong progress in both emergency and routine care.
Patient Visits
- 25 million OPD patients treated
- 16.2 million emergency cases handled
Medicines Provided
- Rs 19.9 billion worth of medicines distributed
- Rs 480 million medicines delivered under the CM Medicine Home Delivery Program
Diagnostic Tests Completed
- 744,430 surgeries
- 475,040 CT scans
- 150,925 MRIs
- 105,155 angiographies
- 157,950 echocardiographies
- 1.2 million ultrasounds
- 1.8 million X-rays
- Pathology tests for 15+ million patients
This reflects Punjab’s strong push to upgrade hospitals and improve public access to treatment.
How Patients Can Benefit from the New Treatment Cards
Eligibility (Likely Criteria Based on Program Goals)
- Punjab residents with cancer or cardiac disease
- Verified diagnosis from a government hospital
- Registration under the program
Expected Benefits
- Cashless treatment at approved hospitals
- Free medicines and tests
- Priority surgery scheduling
- Easy card verification
Impact on Families Across Punjab
These treatment cards are more than a policy decision — they are a lifeline.
For many families, medical bills lead to debt, emotional stress, and delayed treatment. For cancer and heart patients, delays can be life-threatening.
This program ensures:
- Timely care
- Financial protection
- Better survival chances
- Modern treatment close to home
It marks a major shift toward a compassionate and people-focused healthcare system.
Conclusion
Punjab’s new Cancer and Cardiac Treatment Cards are a major relief for thousands of families. With free treatment worth up to Rs 1 million, new institutes, and expanded diagnostic capacity, the province is taking a powerful step toward accessible, life-saving healthcare for all.
