Balochistan’s Health Minister, Bakhth Muhammad Kakar, took a major step toward improving healthcare accountability by inaugurating Complaint Cell 1129 at the Directorate General of Health Office. Dr. Abu Bakar, in charge of the Complaint Cell, briefed the minister on its objectives and operational framework, emphasizing its role in streamlining public grievance resolution.
Bakhth Muhammad Kakar acknowledged the previous lack of an efficient system to address complaints about hospital services. He emphasized that the newly established complaint cell will act as a direct communication channel between citizens and health authorities. To ensure transparency and accountability, complainants will receive follow-up calls after their issues are resolved to confirm their satisfaction. Additionally, focal persons have been deployed at hospitals across the province to facilitate seamless communication with the complaint cell.
The minister also announced the introduction of telemedicine services, designed to connect patients in remote areas with specialized doctors through online consultations. This initiative aims to reduce the need for travel to urban centers while improving access to healthcare. Another significant development is the upcoming launch of the Benazir Air Ambulance Service, which will provide rapid emergency medical assistance, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas.
Minister further highlighted the implementation of a robust system of checks and balances in public hospitals to enhance service delivery. While acknowledging infrastructure challenges, he assured the public that there is no shortage of medical staff and that efforts are underway to improve their performance. He also stressed the urgent need to regulate the private healthcare sector. The recently activated Balochistan Healthcare Commission will oversee hospital registrations and ensure compliance, with unregistered facilities facing closure.
In addition, the minister announced the upcoming launch of E-Kachehri, an online platform where he and his team will directly engage with citizens to hear grievances and issue immediate directives for resolution. Minister Bakhth Kakar described the complaint cell as a revolutionary initiative aimed at bridging the gap between the public and the government. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to healthcare reform, ensuring citizens have a responsive, accessible platform to voice their concerns and receive timely solutions.
