ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHSR&C) has made HIV and Hepatitis B and C screening mandatory before all surgical and invasive medical procedures in public and private hospitals across the country.
The decision comes as the federal government intensifies efforts to control the growing number of HIV and hepatitis infections in Pakistan. According to an official notification issued by the ministry, all healthcare facilities must immediately implement strict infection prevention and control measures.
Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal reportedly took serious notice of the rising spread of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) nationwide. The ministry directed hospitals to adopt comprehensive safety protocols to reduce the risk of infection transmission during medical procedures.
Under the new policy, healthcare centres are now required to conduct HIV 1 & 2 Antibody Tests through Rapid or ELISA methods, along with Hepatitis B Screening (HBsAg) and Hepatitis C Screening (Anti-HCV), before performing surgeries or invasive procedures.
Officials clarified that the screening requirement applies to both major and minor surgeries, including any medical procedure involving surgical instruments entering the body. The ministry stated that the move aims to improve patient safety and strengthen infection control practices in hospitals.
The federal health ministry has also instructed provincial governments, Azad Jammu and Kashmir authorities, and Gilgit-Baltistan officials to ensure immediate implementation of the policy. Emergency letters have been sent to provincial chief secretaries, District Health Officer offices, federally administered hospitals, and the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA).
According to the notification, healthcare facilities will also be responsible for offering counselling and guidance to patients who test positive for HIV or hepatitis. Authorities believe the initiative will help in early diagnosis and prevent further spread of infectious diseases.
The latest directive follows increasing concern among health experts over the rising number of hepatitis and HIV cases in Pakistan. Officials say stronger screening systems and preventive healthcare measures are necessary to protect patients and medical staff while improving public health standards across the country.
