Mirza announces support package for health workers fighting pandemic

ISLAMABAD : Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, Dr Zafar Mirza has said that the government has prepared a comprehensive support package for frontline health workers fighting Covid-19. The special assistant said this while briefing the media persons about the upcoming package here on Friday. Mirza said that doctors, nurses and other paramedics who are working in emergencies, quarantine and isolation centers caring the patients of coronavirus are national heroes and their protection is the main responsibility of the government. He said the package has been prepared after a weeklong consultation with health experts from all over the country. He said the federal and provincial governments will be responsible at their level to implement the package. Mirza said the package consists of 7 points including financial support, security, training, care, healthcare, private health supports and recognition at national level. He said that frontline workers who embrace martyrdom will be given package from Rs3 million to Rs10 million. He said the government will provide adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) to all frontline health workers responsible for Covid-19 patient care.  He said that security for hospitals and staff involved in Covid-19 patient care will also be ensured. He said that Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) will lay down code of conduct for print and electronic media to stop character assassination of health workers. The SAPM said that training will be given to them in critical care management of Covid-19 patients while training program for rational use of PPEs will also be part of the “We Care Program”. He said under the package psycho-social support will be provided to these workers. He said that under the package, Covid-19 tests will be prioritized for infected workers and provided specialized medicines for them. Mirza said that interest free loans for private hospitals through package of State Bank will be provided to ensure payment of salaries, while these hospitals will also be exempted from tax for import of equipment and accessories required for establishment of critical care facilities. He said a strategy is also under process to recognition including honour and awards on national days. He said it is impossible to stop spread of the virus without following the precautionary measures issued by the government.