Lahore (Agencies): The Punjab Employees Social Security (PESSI) Governing Body, in its 165th meeting, approved a series of initiatives aimed at improving healthcare and welfare services for workers in the province. Chaired by Provincial Minister for Labour, Faisal Ayub Khokhar, the meeting saw the approval of several important projects, including the launch of the Chief Minister Punjab Social Security Card, which will be issued in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab. This card is designed to offer workers a range of benefits.
The meeting also approved the upgradation of the Nawaz Sharif Social Security Teaching Hospital in Lahore, increasing its bed capacity from 450 to 550. Additionally, the renaming of the Social Security Medical Centers to Social Security Basic Health Units (BHUs) was agreed upon, alongside the establishment of new Social Security Emergency Centers in Shakargarh and Zafarwal, in Narowal district. These centers are expected to improve emergency healthcare access for workers in these areas.
In a move to further enhance healthcare services, PESSI was authorized to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Islamabad Social Security to align with institutional private practice rates. The establishment of a strategic partnership with the Health Services Academy was also approved to improve medical expertise within PESSI’s network.
Other key decisions included the approval of the affiliation of private sector nursing and allied health sciences institutes to promote quality education and training for nurses and paramedics. Additionally, the upgradation of Social Security Toyo Nasik to a Basic Health Unit was authorized.
The Governing Body also issued directives to address unjustified referrals of patients between medical centers and approved amendments to the PESSI Retainership Policy and changes to the Social Security Ordinance 1965 to establish an upper wage limit for beneficiaries.
Faisal Ayub Khokhar, while addressing the meeting, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and their families across Punjab, highlighting these initiatives as vital steps towards that goal.