On July 30, 2025, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review the progress of Pakistan’s ambitious telemedicine project, a transformative initiative aimed at delivering healthcare to the doorstep of millions.

Joined by the Joint Secretary Health, Director General Development, and a Special Consultant on Telemedicine, the meeting focused on evaluating advancements, addressing challenges, and ensuring the swift completion of this modern healthcare solution.

Kamal emphasized that telemedicine is not just a technological advancement but a critical need of the hour.

“This project will bring doctors and medicines directly to patients’ homes, reducing the burden on major hospitals and providing accessible care to remote areas,” he stated.

The initiative, set to launch pilot programs in Karachi and Islamabad, targets the 70% of Pakistanis who bypass primary healthcare centers and flock to overcrowded tertiary hospitals, exacerbating pressure on urban medical facilities.

The telemedicine project promises to revolutionize healthcare delivery by enabling virtual consultations, diagnostics, and medicine delivery, particularly for underserved rural communities and impoverished patients unable to afford hospital visits.

By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the initiative will strengthen Pakistan’s primary healthcare system, ensuring equitable access to quality medical services.

Challenges discussed during the meeting included infrastructure gaps, internet connectivity in remote regions, and the need for robust training for healthcare providers.

Despite these hurdles, Kamal directed officials to fast-track the project’s implementation to ensure nationwide coverage.

The pilot phase in Karachi and Islamabad will serve as a testing ground, with plans to scale the program across Pakistan upon successful execution.