Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani attended a ceremony hosted by the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America at Governor House Lahore, where he called for concentrated efforts to strengthen primary care across Pakistan. Gilani urged support for Basic Health Units to ease pressure on tertiary hospitals and insisted that healthcare access must be expanded in rural and underdeveloped areas.
Speaking to members of APPNA and visiting clinicians, he emphasised that the devolution of health to the provinces under the 18th Constitutional Amendment brings both responsibility and opportunity for provincial legislation and policy to raise service standards. He highlighted the need to adopt global best practices to deliver affordable, quality care in underserved regions.
Gilani praised the contribution of community-based physicians and those of Pakistani origin working abroad, noting the valuable national and international role they play in improving healthcare outcomes. He encouraged Pakistani Doctors to prioritise medical research and the integration of digital health services, stressing that innovation in the medical curriculum and continuous professional development are essential to meet modern challenges.
Recalling earlier engagements, the Acting President said he had participated in APPNA events during the tenure of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and recognised APPNA members for their role in addressing the effects of the Pressler Amendment by facilitating dialogue with US Senators. He observed that such efforts contributed in time to stabilising aspects of Pakistan’s defense and economy.
Gilani also reflected on his family’s long ties to health and education, mentioning his father’s role in founding Nishtar Medical College. He paid tribute to Lahore’s cultural history and invoked the writings of Data Ali Hajveri in Kashf ul Mahjoob to underline the city’s enduring significance as a centre of learning and service.
The event featured remarks from APPNA President Dr Humaira Qamar, Dr Nasr ul Iqbal, Dr Fazal Akbar Ali, Dr Tahir Pal and Dr Zeni, Pakistan’s first transgender doctor. At the close of the ceremony the Acting President presented awards to several distinguished physicians in recognition of their service to patients and communities.
