Punjab CM launches Diaspora Doctor Locum Programme to improve healthcare

Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the launch of the Diaspora Doctor Locum Programme, an initiative aimed at improving healthcare services by bringing overseas Pakistani and foreign specialist doctors to public hospitals across the province.

The approval was granted during a special meeting of the Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department held in Lahore. The programme is designed to enable internationally qualified medical professionals to temporarily serve in Punjab, where they will perform advanced surgeries, treat complex medical cases, and share their expertise with local healthcare teams.

Under the initiative, specialist doctors from abroad will provide medical services in 12 public sector hospitals, helping strengthen the quality of patient care and enhance the skills of local doctors through professional collaboration and knowledge transfer.

During the meeting, the chief minister emphasized the importance of introducing international expertise into the provincial healthcare system to improve access to specialized treatment and modern medical practices. She said the programme would help raise healthcare standards while ensuring better treatment facilities for patients in government hospitals.

To ensure smooth implementation, Maryam Nawaz also approved the establishment of a dedicated dashboard and an operational web portal. The digital platform will facilitate the registration and coordination of overseas and foreign doctors, monitor their assignments, and streamline the management of the programme.

The Diaspora Doctor Locum Programme is expected to strengthen Punjab's public healthcare system by utilizing the expertise of highly qualified international medical professionals and expanding access to advanced medical care across the province.