Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the establishment of a comprehensive network of stroke centers across the province to provide timely treatment for paralysis patients, 24NewsHD reported. The decision was made during a special meeting chaired by the chief minister on Thursday as part of the province’s broader healthcare initiatives.
Under the new stroke management program, patients experiencing a stroke or paralysis will be transported to hospitals within four hours of the attack to prevent permanent disability and reduce fatalities. The program includes appointing neurologists and pediatric neurologists at stroke centers in all district hospitals. CM Maryam Nawaz also instructed authorities to ensure round-the-clock availability of CT scan machines and to train physicians in stroke management, including the proper administration of TPA and TNA injections. She approved the purchase of TPA injections and ordered the phased establishment of stroke centers throughout Punjab.
The implementation will occur in three phases: the first phase will cover 30 districts, followed by 15 districts in the second phase, and the remaining 24 districts in the final phase. Meanwhile, the stroke management program will be temporarily introduced at the Institute of Cardiology to provide immediate care.
In addition to expanding healthcare infrastructure, the government plans to launch a public awareness campaign to educate citizens about stroke symptoms and the critical importance of seeking prompt medical attention. This initiative complements ongoing efforts by the Punjab government to improve preventive and emergency healthcare services across the province.