First Lady, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, MNA, inaugurated the Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (SICVD) Shaheed Benazirabad, marking a significant step in expanding free and advanced cardiac healthcare in Sindh.
On the occasion, the First Lady appreciated the role of SICVD and the Government of Sindh in strengthening public healthcare and ensuring that quality cardiac treatment reaches people without discrimination. She said institutions like SICVD have become a lifeline for patients, particularly those from underserved and marginalised communities, by providing timely and free treatment with dignity.
The newly inaugurated SICVD Shaheed Benazirabad is a 55-bedded, state-of-the-art cardiac hospital offering round-the-clock cardiac emergency services, primary angioplasty and paediatric cardiac care, all free of cost. Preparations are also underway to introduce stroke intervention services at the facility in the near future.
The centre was initially established on 12 April 2018 at Peoples Medical University Hospital, Nawabshah. Due to space limitations, it has now been shifted to a purpose-built facility, significantly expanding its capacity to serve the population of Central Sindh.
The First Lady also acknowledged and deeply appreciated the philanthropic support of Chaudhry Muhammad Zafar Arain and Mr. Azeem Mughal, who donated the hospital building and have further committed their support for the upcoming surgical tower, reflecting a commendable spirit of public service and shared responsibility in serving humanity.
Sindh Minister for Health Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho said the Government of Sindh remains fully committed to strengthening public healthcare institutions. She described SICVD Shaheed Benazirabad as a major addition to the province’s healthcare infrastructure, aimed at reducing health disparities and ensuring access to quality cardiac care for all citizens.
Executive Director SICVD Prof Jawaid Akbar Sial briefed the gathering on the expansion and performance of the SICVD network across Sindh. He said the new facility represents a promise to deliver timely, advanced and completely free cardiac care at the doorstep of the people, adding that upcoming initiatives include enhanced emergency services and stroke intervention programmes.
He said SICVD has emerged as the world’s largest free cardiac healthcare network, with 10 full-fledged cardiac hospitals and an extensive Chest Pain Unit network across Sindh. The inauguration of SICVD Shaheed Benazirabad further strengthens its mission to bring life-saving cardiac care closer to communities in need.
The ceremony was also attended by Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, senior government officials, healthcare professionals and representatives of the SICVD network.