Sindh has become a global leader in emergency heart care as the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) and its 11 satellite centres now offer free 24/7 emergency angioplasty across the province. Since the programme’s launch in 2017, more than 138,000 Primary PCI procedures have been performed—completely free of cost.
This initiative stands in stark contrast to many public hospitals across Pakistan, including those in Islamabad, where no cardiac unit offers Primary PCI after dark. These delays in treatment put countless lives at risk during late-night heart emergencies.
Funded by the Sindh government under the vision of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the programme started with NICVD Karachi and gradually expanded to Larkana, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Mithi, and other key cities. The newest centre in Baldia Town also serves patients from parts of Balochistan, offering life-saving treatment in underserved areas.
“These centres save lives when others are closed,” said Prof Dr Tahir Saghir, Executive Director of NICVD. “Our fully equipped units operate non-stop, ensuring treatment during the golden hour—when timely action can prevent death or permanent damage.”
Each facility includes a cath lab, trained staff, and an ambulance network connected to Chest Pain Units for early diagnosis and rapid transport. As a result, Sindh has seen a major drop in heart attack deaths, even in rural areas like Thar, where Chinese engineers have received emergency care.
Prof Saghir called on other provinces to follow Sindh’s model, saying it’s not just possible—it’s proven and sustainable. The NICVD system not only improves public health but also challenges private hospitals by offering better care completely free, reshaping access to cardiac treatment in Pakistan.