KARACHI: Director of Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM) Sindh, Ms. Rubina Kausar Siddiqui, highlighted a significant healthcare initiative during her visit to the Dr. Ruth K. M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi. The hospital is offering free cochlear implants to children with hearing impairments who cannot afford the costly treatment. This program is part of a broader effort led by Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Managing Director Senator Shaheen Khalid Butt, aimed at providing these children with better opportunities for social interaction and development.
Ms. Siddiqui’s visit to the hospital’s ENT Department on Thursday was part of a review of the ongoing cochlear implant activities. Her visit, made at the behest of the Director General of Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal, included Assistant Directors Shah Muhammad and Tahir Iqbal.
Upon arrival, the delegation was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Sadaf Zia, Head of the ENT Department, who provided an overview of the program’s progress. Prof. Zia reported that five children have already benefited from the implants, with additional registrations and pre-surgical processes underway.
Prof. Zia emphasized the transformative potential of the program, stating that it offers more than just medical assistance; it opens doors to educational, professional, and social opportunities for children who might otherwise face significant barriers.
The surgical procedures are overseen by Dr. Akbar Abbas from Aga Khan Hospital, with a team led by Prof. Zia that includes Dr. Danish-ur-Rahim, Dr. Uzma Naqvi, and Dr. Irfan Ahmed.
During her visit, Ms. Siddiqui engaged with children who have undergone the procedure and their families, receiving positive feedback. She assured them of PBM’s ongoing support and affirmed the organization’s commitment to future initiatives.
Two presentations by postgraduate residents from the ENT Department outlined the progress and future goals of the program. The visit concluded with a vote of thanks from Prof. Zia, a bouquet presentation, and a group photograph, sealing the day’s successful review.