ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP):Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal on Monday discussed measures to strengthen mental health services in Islamabad and introduction of screening and counselling facilities at basic health centres.
The minister held a meeting with Dr. Kamran Siddiqui, Director of the Centre for Impact South Asia, to discuss initiatives aimed at improving access to mental healthcare and integrating essential services into primary healthcare facilities.
Syed Mustafa Kamal said the Ministry of Health was taking practical steps to strengthen the mental health sector. He noted that a two-day mental health conference had recently been held successfully, bringing together experts from across the world.
The minister directed the preparation of a comprehensive plan to improve mental health services and called for the inclusion of mental health and lifestyle medicine in nursing education.
He also emphasized the need for consultation with relevant experts and stakeholders to develop an effective strategy for expanding mental healthcare services.
The minister reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing mental health facilities at the primary healthcare level, with a particular focus on screening, counselling and strengthening nursing education and training.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
