By Moin Ullah Shah
KARACHI: Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho inaugurated a new Opioid Agonist Maintenance Therapy (OAMT) Centre at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) on Monday, aimed at providing medical support and rehabilitation services to people struggling with opioid addiction.
The newly established facility was designed to offer evidence-based treatment and help patients gradually overcome dependence on opioids under professional medical supervision. Officials said the center would provide a combination of medication, counselling and rehabilitation services to support patients in returning to normal social and family life.
Speaking to media representatives after the inauguration, Dr Pechuho said addiction required a scientific and compassionate approach rather than isolation. She said trained doctors and healthcare professionals would closely monitor patients throughout the treatment process to ensure effective recovery and long-term support.
She added that the provincial government was also strengthening efforts for HIV screening among vulnerable groups to identify cases at an early stage and provide timely treatment. She said early diagnosis remained essential for preventing the spread of infections and improving health outcomes.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sindh Health Secretary Tahir Hussain Sangi, JPMC Executive Director Dr Khalid Sher, Joint Director Dr Suleman, Deputy Directors Dr Yahya Tunio, Dr Nosheen, Dr Shanila, Dr Saddam Saleh, Dr Adil Samoon and other senior health officials.
During her interaction with reporters, Dr Pechuho also spoke about patient safety and hospital accountability. She said every death in a healthcare facility was a matter of serious concern and required proper examination.
Referring to reports regarding the death of a patient at Jinnah Hospital, she said that if negligence was involved, a complete and transparent investigation should be carried out before fixing responsibility. She rejected the idea that any loss of life should be considered insignificant and stressed that every patient’s death must be taken seriously.
The health minister said the establishment of the OAMT Centre reflected the government’s commitment to expanding specialized healthcare services and providing rehabilitation opportunities for people affected by addiction.
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