Punjab Govt yet to release Rs14b additional funds to health department

LAHORE, Oct 19 (NNI): The Punjab government has not released additional funds for the hospitals despite the approval given by the Chief Minister. The public sector hospitals across the province are in dire need of funds for the treatment of patients and management purposes. The health department had asked for funds of Rs 14b from the Punjab government after working on the demands of various hospitals. The funds are required for purchasing medicines for the various hospitals. Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education department has also asked for funds for paying the electricity bills of the offices and hospitals. A demand of Rs.98 crore was made for X-ray film and bedding. The Punjab government did not yet release funds to the government hospitals despite the approval. NNI