Pakistan is grappling with a severe shortage of nearly 900,000 nurses, highlighting a major challenge for the country’s healthcare system.
At the same time, the global demand for nurses is estimated at around 2.5 million, creating both pressure and opportunity for Pakistan’s nursing workforce.
This was revealed in the second meeting of the Pakistan Nursing Council (PNC), which was held at the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, where officials and health experts discussed key challenges facing Pakistan’s nursing sector.
During the meeting, health experts viewed that institutional reforms, stronger regulation and the expansion of nursing education and training programs could significantly help Pakistan achieve its nursing targets and enhance the overall capacity of the healthcare system.
Addressing the meeting, Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal highlighted the critical role nurses play in the country’s healthcare system and stressed the need to strengthen the nursing profession to meet growing healthcare demands.
Speaking on the occasion, the Health Minister said the nursing profession is fundamental to ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of healthcare services. He added that the quality of patient care largely depends on the professionalism, skills, and dedication of nursing staff.
Kamal also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restructuring the Pakistan Nursing Council in line with modern international standards. He stressed that practical reforms are required to restore the institution’s credibility.
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