Aseefa Inaugurates Shaheed Benazirabad SICVD
First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari officially opened the Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (SICVD) in Nawabshah, now bearing the name Shaheed Benazirabad. This new facility promises free, advanced cardiac treatment for patients throughout central Sindh.
At the inauguration ceremony, Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari highlighted the crucial role of the SICVD and the Sindh government in bolstering public healthcare. She emphasized their commitment to providing quality cardiac care without discrimination, stating, “Institutions like the SICVD have become a lifeline for patients, particularly those from underserved and marginalised communities, by providing timely and free treatment with dignity.”
The Shaheed Benazirabad SICVD is a 55-bed, state-of-the-art facility. It offers 24/7 emergency services, primary angioplasty, and pediatric cardiac care, all provided at no cost. Future plans include the introduction of stroke intervention services.
Originally established on April 12, 2018, at Peoples Medical University Hospital, Nawabshah, the SICVD has now moved to a purpose-built site, significantly increasing its capacity. This expansion is a testament to the growing need for cardiac services in the region, as reported by SindhNews.com.
Philanthropic contributions were also recognized. Chaudhry Mohammad Zafar Arain and Azeem Mughal donated the building and pledged further support for an upcoming surgical tower, demonstrating strong public-private partnership in healthcare.
Sindh Minister for Health, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, reiterated the provincial government’s dedication to strengthening public healthcare. She described the new SICVD as vital for reducing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to cardiac care.
Executive Director Prof. Jawaid Akbar Sial shared that SICVD is now the world’s largest free cardiac healthcare network, comprising 10 hospitals and an extensive Chest Pain Unit network across Sindh.