Punjab Launches ‘CM Special Initiative Card’ for Free Cancer, Cardiac Treatment

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the launch of the CM Special Initiative Card, a major healthcare program aimed at providing free treatment to cancer and heart disease patients across the province.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by the chief minister, where the Secretary of Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education briefed her on the initiative. Under the program, the Punjab government will cover the full treatment costs — up to Rs1 million per patient — easing the financial burden of costly medical procedures.

In the first phase, 45,000 patients will be issued the CM Special Initiative Card, enabling them to receive free, advanced treatment. Cardholders will also be entitled to free cardiac surgeries under the Chief Minister’s Cardiac Surgery Program.

Read more: Eco-Friendly Punjab — The Vision of Chief Minister MMaryam Nawaz Sharif timely treatment for stroke and paralysis patients.

Additional updates include:

• The OPD block of the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research Lahore will become operational by January 17, with 219 new recruitments approved.

• The Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cardiology Sargodha will have its IPD, emergency, pathology, and radiology departments fully functional by January 31, supported by 258 new hires.

• The Jinnah Institute of Cardiology Lahore will begin operations on February 15, with 1,104 staff members inducted for its launch.

The chief minister has directed that all projects be completed on time to ensure life-saving services reach the public without delay.