NICVD Seeks Rs3.5 Billion from Sindh Government Amidst Rising Operational Costs
The National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) has formally requested Rs3.5 billion in financial assistance from the Sindh government to address significant shortfalls stemming from escalating administrative and service costs. This urgent plea was made during the 84th governing body meeting of the NICVD, held at the CM House and presided over by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.
The meeting saw the attendance of key figures, including Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and senior finance and health officials. Discussions centered on strategies to secure the institute’s future and enhance its crucial life-saving services.
Addressing NICVD’s Financial Requirements
A primary focus of the meeting was the urgent need for additional funding. The NICVD highlighted a total funding deficit of approximately Rs4.6 billion for the current fiscal year (2025-2026), despite an initial approval of Rs10 billion by the Chief Minister. This deficit necessitates the requested Rs3.5 billion grant to bridge the gap caused by increasing operational expenses. According to SindhNews.com, this financial strain directly impacts the institute’s capacity to sustain its vital services.
The Chief Minister directed the formation of a committee, led by Finance Secretary Fayaz Jatoi, to meticulously examine the NICVD’s business model. This committee is tasked with proposing reforms and preparing a detailed report to comprehensively address the institute’s financial challenges.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Service Delivery
Beyond financial considerations, the governing body approved the recruitment of a full-time Chief Operating Officer and a Chief Financial Officer through a competitive open-market process. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for the health department to establish clear recruitment rules before commencing the hiring process. Furthermore, decisions were made to resolve legal ambiguities, ensuring uninterrupted public service delivery.
The Chief Minister also instructed officials to finalize the appointment of a firm dedicated to developing a comprehensive business plan for the merger and administrative streamlining of NICVD with the Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases.
NICVD’s Progress and Impact
During the meeting, Executive Director Prof. Tahir Saghir presented an overview of the NICVD’s achievements in 2025. The institute performed 9,925 primary angioplasties and conducted over 200 Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedures free of charge. These TAVI procedures, which can cost approximately Rs4 million in private facilities, represent a significant savings for patients.
The NICVD has also expanded its paediatric cardiac services into Balochistan, completing upwards of 100 surgeries and 300 interventions for children. The dedicated Stroke Intervention Programme successfully carried out over 450 procedures, averting permanent neurological damage for numerous individuals.
Conclusion
The NICVD’s request for increased funding underscores the growing pressure on healthcare institutions to maintain services amidst rising costs. The Sindh government’s engagement through the governing body meeting and the formation of a reform committee signal a commitment to addressing these financial and operational challenges, aiming to ensure the continued provision of critical cardiovascular care.