World Bank rates $300 million national health program as ‘moderately satisfactory’

The World Bank has rated the implementation progress of Pakistan’s National Health Support Programme (NHSP), valued at approximately $300 million, as “moderately satisfactory.” 

The program, launched in October 2022, aims to strengthen equitable access to quality primary healthcare services in line with Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The International Development Association (IDA) originally committed $258 million to the NHSP, later revised to $252 million. Currently, $117.24 million (46.10%) of this amount has been disbursed, leaving $137.07 million unspent. 

Additionally, a $42 million grant from the Global Financing Facility was committed, with $22.85 million disbursed.

The program’s development objectives include strengthening the equitable delivery of essential health services and enhancing the performance of health systems at the primary healthcare (PHC) level. 

Scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2026, the program supports federal and provincial governments in reforms aimed at improving health and nutrition outcomes.

The reform strategy under the NHSP is built on three pillars. The first focuses on aligning PHC services with a high-quality benefits package, addressing demand generation and supply-side readiness, including facilities, human resources, and referral systems. 

The second pillar emphasizes integrated approaches to PHC delivery, such as financing and information systems management. The third addresses inadequate PHC financing and weak public financial management systems.