LAHORE: Pakistan has launched its first air ambulance service, marking a significant milestone in emergency medical care as it successfully transferred the first patient, local media reported on Sunday.
The air ambulance service facilitated the transfer of Halima Bibi, a 40-year-old woman from Mianwali who suffered paralysis after a fall from a roof two days ago. Initially treated at Mianwali’s District Headquarters Hospital, surgeons recommended further treatment in Rawalpindi.
Responding to the emergency, the air ambulance immediately transported Halima Bibi from Mianwali to Rawalpindi within the critical “golden hour,” ensuring timely medical intervention crucial for her condition.
The family of the patient expressed deep gratitude to Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz, describing her as an “angel” for enabling the urgent transfer. The Chief Minister emphasized that every citizen has the right to quality and timely medical treatment.
CM Maryam Nawaz announced the commencement of Pakistan’s first air ambulance operations during her maiden address at the Punjab Assembly.
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Earlier this year, the Punjab cabinet approved the ambitious air ambulance project, which includes plans to lease two aircraft equipped to transport medical personnel, essential equipment, and life-saving medicines. These air ambulances are specially designed to operate from short runways and have the capability to land and take off from national highways and motorways, ensuring swift access to critical medical care in remote and urban areas alike.
