ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal has announced that the federal government has established 10 telemedicine dispensaries, ARY News reported.

Syed Mustafa Kamal informed that these telemedicine dispensaries will remain open from morning until 8:00 PM.

Elaborating further, the minister said that authorities are going to equip these dispensaries with advanced technology in the very next phase.

He noted that technology has bridged long distances, enabling the best doctors from anywhere in the world to share their expertise, and allowing physicians to treat patients regardless of their physical location.

Highlighting government achievements, he stated that all progress made in telemedicine has been driven by the federal administration, adding that their work in the health sector over the past 14 months surpasses what was accomplished in the last 30 years.

Addressing public health concerns, the minister warned that a large portion of Pakistan’s population is affected by hepatitis C without even knowing it, noting, “When hepatitis C takes an ugly turn, it converts into liver cancer.”

He pointed out that while a standard hepatitis check-up typically costs around Rs 7,000, the government is providing free screenings and strongly urging citizens to take advantage of the initiative. Individuals starting from 12 years of age can undergo free testing at government health centers in Islamabad.

Extending further support to the public, he added that if a center does not exist in a specific area, the government is willing to establish one locally, while repeatedly stressing the importance of making the most of the free health check-up scheme.