THE ROLE AND FUTURE OF PUBLIC HEALTH IN PAKISTAN: EVALUATING CURRENT EFFECTIVENESS, CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, AND GLOBAL INTEGRATION IN THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
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Keywords
Antibiotic Resistance, Public Health, Self-Medication, Healthcare Access, Workforce Development, Global Health Practices.
Abstract
Introduction: Pakistan’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including a high burden of infectious diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis, and malaria, as well as a growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Self-medication, especially with antibiotics, is common, contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), exacerbating public health issues.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of public health initiatives in Pakistan, focusing on antibiotic resistance, healthcare workforce distribution, and integration of global health practices.
Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Rawalpindi and Islamabad from January to March 2025. A total of 250 participants, including medical students, healthcare professionals, and patients, were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected via self-administered questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and cross-tabulation were used for data analysis.
Results: The study revealed that 80.8% of participants engaged in self-medication, with cephalosporins being the most commonly used antibiotic (40.8%). While 82.0% were aware of antibiotic resistance, only 62.0% understood its mechanisms. Healthcare access was reported by 82.0% of participants, with rural areas experiencing lower access compared to urban regions (p = 0.02).
Conclusion: Despite good awareness of antibiotic resistance, self-medication remains widespread. Stricter regulations, public health campaigns, and workforce distribution reforms are essential to improving Pakistan’s healthcare outcomes.
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Dr. Muhammad Wajaht ul Haq
Senior lecturer community medicine, Watim medical college Rawalpindi, evening
administrator Riphah international hospital Islamabad,
Dr. Muhammad Asad Abbas
Department: community medicine, senior lecturecollege/uni affiliation: senior lecturer Watim medical college, UHSemail address :
Dr. Fatima Aftab Khan
Community medicine demonstrator Watim medical college,
Dr. Imran Mansoor
Senior lecturer community medicineWatim medical college, [email protected]
Dr. Namrah Ahmed
WMDC,
Prof. Dr. Farah Ahmed
department of community medicine.Watim medical college/UHS
