In a move that is set to impact many residents of Punjab who rely on health cards for medical treatment, the Punjab Health Initiative Management Company has unveiled a new policy, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Starting September 1, patients undergoing certain surgical procedures, including hernia, appendix, and gallstone operations, will have to bear 30% of the total charges, as per a recently released notification.

Furthermore, the same charge will be applicable for those needing prostate and uterus surgeries. The change signifies a significant departure from the previous full-coverage policy, marking a shift in the burden of healthcare costs more squarely onto the patients' shoulders.

The decision has been met with concern, especially among the underprivileged who viewed the health card as a means to access necessary treatments without the strain of hefty medical bills.

While the exact reasons behind this revision remain undisclosed, it underscores the challenges of sustaining completely free healthcare provisions in the face of budgetary and economic constraints.

Reporter: Zahid Chaudhary