New Free Pulmonary Rehab Center Opens in Karachi

Pakistan’s First Free Pulmonary Rehab Center Opens at Dow University

Pakistan’s first free pulmonary rehabilitation center has been launched at Dow University of Health Sciences, Ojha Campus in Karachi. The center, named “Dr Syed Ashiq Hussain Rehabilitation Center,” honors the late head of the Ojha Institute of Chest Diseases. It was officially inaugurated by Dow University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Nazli Hossain, in a ceremony attended by senior faculty and staff.

In her remarks, Dr. Nazli Hossain emphasized Dow University’s commitment to providing quality healthcare for all. She noted that these new facilities mark a significant step in improving treatment for chest diseases. Alongside the rehabilitation center, the Vice Chancellor also inaugurated a new Intravenous Admixture and Compounding Pharmacy. Both centers aim to improve treatment outcomes and reduce risks for patients.

According to Professor Iftikhar Ahmed, Director of the Institute, the Ojha Institute already provides free diagnosis, treatment, and medicine for chest conditions. It also offers the country’s only dedicated ICU for tuberculosis patients. However, he explained there was a pressing need for a proper rehabilitation facility. The new center fills this gap and supports long-term recovery.

Physiotherapists have been appointed at the rehabilitation center to help patients regain normal function after treatment. These professionals will guide patients through personalized recovery plans. The goal is to restore health and improve quality of life for those with chronic or severe chest diseases. This center brings an essential service to an already vital healthcare institution.

Meanwhile, the newly launched pharmacy will provide ready-to-use syringes containing fast-acting and high-cost medicines. This system aims to prevent medication misuse and ensure safety in drug administration. The Vice Chancellor was briefed that both projects address long-standing gaps in care. Together, they reflect Dow University’s ongoing mission to lead medical innovation and service delivery in Pakistan.