ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has launched its first digital-first Basic Health Unit (BHU) in Gokina, Islamabad, marking a major step toward modernizing primary healthcare delivery through technology under the federal BHU Digitalization Program.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination in collaboration with digital health platform Sehat Kahani, introduces a fully paperless, telemedicine-enabled primary healthcare facility operating within the public sector.
Digital Healthcare Model Goes Live at BHU Gokina
The newly inaugurated BHU offers structured digital patient registration, secure teleconsultations with qualified doctors and specialists, electronic medical records, and digital prescriptions. On-site nursing staff manage triage, facilitate virtual consultations, and ensure continuity of care through follow-ups.
Officials said the model demonstrates how primary healthcare can transition from fragmented, paper-based systems to connected, data-driven care while operating under real public-sector conditions.
Federal Minister Highlights Technology-Driven Healthcare Access
Speaking at the inauguration, Syed Mustafa Kamal, Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, said technology would play a central role in closing gaps in healthcare access.
“Actions speak louder than words, and our vision is now visible on the ground. Through telemedicine, we are committed to filling Pakistan’s healthcare gaps and ensuring timely, quality care reaches every community, regardless of distance,” he said.
Sehat Kahani Calls Initiative a New Era for Primary Care
Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sehat Kahani, described the launch as a milestone for community healthcare.
“This marks a new era for primary healthcare in Pakistan. By integrating telemedicine, digital medical records and seamless follow-ups, communities can access qualified healthcare without delays, while on-site staff deliver more coordinated care,” she said.
The Gokina BHU is equipped with Sehat Kahani’s digital infrastructure, including secure video consultations, electronic health records, digital prescriptions, and integrated pharmacy management systems.
Scalable Model for Nationwide Expansion
Dr. Iffat Zafar Aga, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Sehat Kahani, said the paperless system strengthens accountability, efficiency and clinical decision-making, adding that the center serves as a scalable model for nationwide digital healthcare expansion.
Senior Officials Attend Inauguration
The inauguration was attended by senior federal and district health officials, including Dr. Syeda Rashida, District Health Officer Islamabad; Muhammad Arshad Qaim Khani, CEO of the Federal Sehat Sahulat Program; and other officials from the Ministry of Health, alongside community representatives and media.
The ceremony included a Quran recitation, national anthem, keynote addresses, project presentation, ribbon-cutting, clinic and software walkthroughs, and media interaction.
Officials said the launch reflects Pakistan’s broader commitment to leveraging digital technology to improve community health outcomes, reduce delays in care, and build a sustainable, connected healthcare ecosystem nationwide.
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