By Shehneela Mazhar:
In a spirit of collaboration and shared dedication to public health, the PUAN Interest Group of Public Health came together on July 25, 2023 for a transformative meet-up, leaving us inspired and motivated to make a difference in the world of healthcare.
The meet-up commenced with uplifting opening remarks from Kelly Ryan, Public Diplomacy Officer , U.S. Embassy Islamabad, who highlighted the unwavering support of the U.S. government to Pakistan’s health sector, especially during the challenging times of COVID-19. He shared that the U.S. government has provided more than 79 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to Pakistan including 16 million pediatric doses, one million COVID-19 rapid diagnostic tests, and critical health supplies and training to health workers. These efforts are supported by the more than $80 million, the U.S. government has provided, to assist the Pakistani people in the fight against COVID-19. He further added that the collaboration between nations in times of crisis truly exemplifies the power of collective action.
Dr. Zaeem Zia, a dedicated Fulbrighter and District Health Officer of Islamabad, shared invaluable insights on how he and his team managed the pandemic in the capital city. Their dedication and resilience during the COVID-19 era demonstrated the potential for continued growth and progress in the country’s healthcare sector. The lessons learned during these testing times will continue to shape and improve healthcare practices in Pakistan.
Asia Ashraf, the Director of Rehabilitation & Consultant Psychologist at Greenfield Hospital of Psychiatry, delivered an impactful talk on “Bridging Gaps: Fostering Evidence-Based Treatment for Women with Substance Use Disorders.” Her dedication to fostering evidence-based care and support for vulnerable populations is truly commendable and serves as a guiding light in the quest for a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system.
The meet-up also featured an engaging question and answer session, where participants enthusiastically exchanged ideas, experiences, and visions for the future of public health in Pakistan. The collective passion and commitment shown during this session are a testament to the potential for transformational change in the healthcare landscape.
Together, we celebrate the spirit of collaboration, resilience, and innovation within the Interest Group of Public Health. Let’s take this inspiration with us and continue working hand in hand to build a healthier, happier world for all.
Check out more pictures via: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjANSZ2
