Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that stroke centres will be established across the province, ensuring timely emergency care for patients in every district. Speaking at a meeting reviewing the Stroke Management Programme, she said the plan would be implemented in phases, starting with 30 district headquarters hospitals, followed by 15 in the second phase, and the remaining 24 in the final stage.
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The CM highlighted the importance of providing treatment within the four-hour “golden window” after a stroke, which can prevent permanent disability. She stressed that each district hospital would be staffed with qualified neurologists and pediatric neurologists to manage stroke cases effectively.
Across Punjab, a decision has been taken to establish Stroke Centers.
🔹Under the Stroke/Paralysis Management Program, timely treatment of stroke attacks will be ensured in every district.
🔹Stroke Centers will be set up in phases: first in 30 districts, then 15, and finally in… pic.twitter.com/JrD4CgP2Fd
— PMLN (@pmln_org) January 8, 2026
Maryam Nawaz directed that CT scan machines in all government hospitals be made fully operational to support rapid diagnosis and treatment. Physicians will also receive specialised training in stroke management, including the use of Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TPA) and Tenecteplase (TNK) injections, with training and injection procurement targeted for completion by mid-February.
In the interim, the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) will provide stroke management services until district-level facilities are functional. The training programme aims to equip physicians with the skills needed to administer life-saving treatments promptly and efficiently.
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in Pakistan, with thousands of cases reported annually. The CM noted that timely administration of clot-busting medications can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce long-term healthcare burdens.
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In a separate initiative, Maryam Nawaz launched Punjab’s first honorarium card for prayer leaders, providing monthly financial support to over 66,000 registered Imams. Each Imam will receive Rs25,000 through a digital card system, ensuring direct, transparent payments, with disbursements beginning in February.