Comprehensive support package for frontline health workers fighting Covid19

Comprehensive support package for frontline health workers fighting Covid19 prepared.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, Dr. Zafar Mirza said, while briefing the media about the upcoming package in Islamabad on Friday.

Comprehensive support package for frontline health workers

He called those doctors, nurses and other paramedics national heroes because they are working in emergencies, quarantine and isolation centers.

The SAPM Mirza noted those national heroes ae caring the patients of coronavirus.

Hence, he their protection main responsibility of the government.

Dr. Zafar Mirza said the government prepared package after a week-long consultation with health experts from all over the country.

He said the federal and provincial governments will be responsible at their level to implement the package.

He said the package consists of 7 points.

They include financial support, security, training, care, healthcare, private health supports and recognition at national level.

The SAPM on Health announced tax exemption for frontline workers who embrace shahadat with package from 3 to 10 million rupees.

He said the government will provide adequate PPEs to all frontline health workers responsible for COVID-19 patient care.

Dr Zafar Mira said the govt would also ensure security for hospitals and staff involved in COVID-19 patient care.

He said PEMRA will lay down code of conduct for print and electronic media to refrain from character assassination of health workers.

He said government would arrange training for them in critical care management of COVID-19 patients.

The training program for rational use of PPEs will also be part of the “We Care Program”.

He said under the package psycho-social support will be provided to these workers.

The SAPM said under the package, COVID-19 tests will be prioritized for infected workers and provided specialized medicines for them.

He said interest free loans for private hospitals through package of State Bank will be provided to ensure payment of salaries.

Tax exemptions for hospitals

Moreover, these hospitals will also be exempted from tax for import of equipment and accessories required for establishment of critical care facilities.

He said strategy is also under process to recognition including Honour and Awards on National days.

He said it is impossible to stop spread of the virus without following the precautionary measures issued by the government.