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LAHORE, Jan 27 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the establishment of stroke
management centres in every district of the province to ensure timely and specialized
treatment for stroke patients close to their homes.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Health Department chaired by the chief minister,
here on Tuesday.
The meeting also approved, in principle, the posting of neurologists and paediatric neurologists
at all District Headquarters (DHQ) hospitals across Punjab.
Under the approved plan, one doctor and one nurse from each district will undergo a three-month
specialized training programme in stroke management.
The chief minister further directed the immediate launch of a telemedicine project for stroke
patients, enabling district hospitals to consult senior specialists and neurologists through
direct telephone and telemedicine links to ensure prompt and effective treatment.
CM Maryam Nawaz instructed the Health Department to initiate a dedicated training programme
for nurses at stroke management centres and to take necessary steps for providing stroke
management training to rescue service personnel. She also directed the launch of a
comprehensive public awareness campaign focusing on stroke prevention, early diagnosis,
and timely treatment.
During the briefing, health experts highlighted the importance of an integrated approach encompassing pre-hospital, hospital, and post-hospital care for stroke patients.
The meeting was informed that the golden hours immediately after a stroke are critical for successful treatment and recovery.
“The importance of golden hours in stroke treatment is universally recognised. I will personally lead the public awareness campaign,” the chief minister said, adding that the government aims to ensure that no patient is forced to travel to major cities for stroke treatment. She further announced that stroke management centres would also be established at children’s hospitals across Punjab to address paediatric neurological emergencies.
The meeting was informed that one in four people above the age of 25 is at risk of stroke. Neurologist Dr Qasim Bashir from PIMS Islamabad gave a detailed briefing on the proposed stroke management programme and its implementation framework.