The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination established Model Infectious Diseases Centre to provide free testing and treatment of Hepatitis C and Tuberculosis. The Centre was inaugurated by Federal Minister, Aamer Mehmood Kiani at a Dispensary in Islamabad.
Sharing his view on this occasion, Aamer Mehmood Kiani the government is revamping all health services in Islamabad to convert it in a Model City. This model center is dedicated for the screening, testing and treatment of hepatitis C patients with integration of other infectious diseases like Tuberculosis (TB). The project will start from screening from underserved communities by the team of the center and it will go door to door in slum communities to screen high risk individuals. Those found positive will be referred to this center for confirmation of the disease and its treatment.
Furthermore, the Ministry is also implementing Hepatitis Prevention and Control Project for ICT with incorporation of TB to curb disease burden of hepatitis C. Hepatitis C patients will be cured with three months’ oral tablets treatment with no side effects. Hepatitis B vaccine will also be given to the patients undergoing hepatitis C treatment. All the testing, treatment and hepatitis B vaccination will be done free of cost. Our dedicated staff will ensure the follow up of the patients in the community to maximize the treatment compliance and response.
Elaborating the working of the Centre, he informed that it will carry out a vigorous awareness campaign in these communities using the innovative modes of communications to raise awareness for health seeking behaviours, precautionary measurements and information about the Centre. The main purpose is to sensitize masses in an effective and proficient manner rather to use conventional modes of communication. Inadequately screened blood transfusions; inappropriately sterilized medical/surgical/dental/gynecological instruments; sharing razors, shaving blades and toothbrushes are the most significant risk factors for the transmission of the hepatitis C in our country.
