HEALTH GOVERNANCE IN KP, AN ANALYSIS OF SEHAT SAHOLAT PROGRAM

Abstract

Health governance encompasses the structures and processes regulating and directing the health system. A sustainable health system delivers quality care while minimizing environmental impact. In Pakistan, the Sehat Sahulat Program (SSP), formerly the Prime Minister National Health Program, aims to enhance access to quality health services through social health insurance for the underprivileged. This study examines the positive and negative impacts of SSP, highlighting its challenges and areas for improvement. Data was collected through interviews with healthcare workers, doctors, and beneficiaries at public sector hospitals in Peshawar, including Lady Reading Hospital, Khyber Teaching Hospital, and Hayatabad Medical Complex. Findings reveal SSP’s potential benefits under specific conditions but also identify issues like substandard medicines, poor accountability, mismanagement, and misuse by private hospitals. The study underscores the need for better planning and reforms to maximize the program's effectiveness and ensure equitable health service delivery.