District Steering Committee (DSC) for Health Meeting – Mardan

A meeting of the District Steering Committee (DSC) for Health was held under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner Mardan. The primary agenda of the meeting was to review and evaluate the overall performance of the Health and Population Welfare Departments in the district.

Key discussion points included the allocation and utilization of budget and the availability of funds. The committee thoroughly reviewed the stock and availability of essential medicines at Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centers (RHCs). The functionality and availability of necessary medical equipment were also assessed.

Special attention was given to absenteeism in the 

health workforce. Strict action was directed against habitually absent medical staff. The committee reviewed the average daily Outpatient Department (OPD) attendance, the presence of Medical Officers (MOs), and the status of Lady Health Visitors (LHVs), particularly regarding vacant positions.

The condition of health infrastructure and overall cleanliness of the facilities were also discussed. The committee emphasized taking action against closed health facilities and non-functional population welfare centers.

In addition, the performance of the Population Welfare Department was reviewed. Topics included staff availability, measures against absent employees, the rationalization of excessive or surplus staff, and the reopening of closed centers.

Lastly, the committee revisited and reviewed the implementation status of decisions taken in the previous DSC meeting to ensure progress and accountability across the health sector.