Islamabad:
Despite health spending in Pakistan, representing less than 1% of national GDP, the country has experienced notable progress in the health care sector, including a two-year increase in average life expectancy, according to the 2024-25 economic survey published on Monday.
The survey reveals that the average life expectancy in Pakistan has increased from 65 years and six months to 67 years and six months, which indicates improvements in basic health indicators despite limited public investment.
During the current financial year, Pakistan allocated a total of 925 billion rupees in the health sector. However, the doctor / patient ratio remains alarming, with a single doctor available for 750,000 people.
According to the report, the number of doctors recorded in the country has crossed 319,000, reflecting an increase of more than 20,000 in the past year.
The number of dentists recorded reached 39,088, while the country now has 138,000 nurses and 46,801 midwives. The number of health workers has reached 29,000.
There are currently 1,696 hospitals and 5,434 basic health units (BHUS) across the country.
However, health challenges persist because the infant mortality rate remains a concern, with 50 infants out of 1,000 dying each year.
In addition, the life expectancy of Pakistan, although improved, is still lagging behind the regional average of South Asian, which rises at 71 years and six months, according to the economic survey.
