The Punjab government has launched the Punjab Free AIDS Screening Program to provide free AIDS screening, essential medical tests, and complete treatment through special clinics across the province. These clinics have been set up at both district and tehsil levels so that people can easily get tested close to home.
Health experts say that although AIDS was once considered extremely dangerous, it is now a manageable and treatable condition with proper care and medication. Punjab’s Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir and Secretary Health Nadia Saqib have instructed health authorities to ensure free testing, patient-friendly counselling, and respectful treatment for all patients.
According to Dr. Naveed Akhtar Malik, Director of the Punjab AIDS Control Programme, special AIDS clinics are now fully functional in Tehsil Headquarters Hospitals and District Headquarters Hospitals. An official website has also been launched to raise awareness.
People at higher risk, including drug users, healthcare workers exposed to infected syringes, and sex workers, are being provided HIV tests, PCR tests, and CD4 tests free of cost. Those who test positive receive free medicines, counselling, and continuous care. A modern Punjab Public Health Laboratory in Lahore is also connected to this program to test samples from all districts and provide timely reports.
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