The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has strongly called for a tax freeze on the healthcare sector in the upcoming federal budget, expressing concern over proposed new tax measures by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
According to the PMA, the healthcare system in Pakistan is already under severe pressure due to rising costs of medicines, medical equipment, and hospital operations. The association believes that introducing additional taxes at this stage could further burden both healthcare providers and patients.
In its statement, the PMA urged the government to reconsider the proposed fiscal policies and instead focus on strengthening the healthcare infrastructure. The association emphasized that affordable healthcare should remain a national priority, especially in a time when inflation and medical expenses are already affecting millions of citizens.
Key concerns raised include:
- Rising cost of medical treatment and hospital services
- Increased financial pressure on doctors, clinics, and hospitals
- Potential rise in patient charges due to new taxes
- Risk of reduced access to affordable healthcare services
The PMA also argued that the healthcare sector should be treated as a special priority area and protected from heavy taxation, similar to essential public services.
Meanwhile, discussions continue around the Federal Budget, where the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is reportedly considering new revenue measures to increase tax collection. However, medical professionals warn that such steps should not come at the cost of public health.
Health experts and stakeholders are now calling for a balanced approach that ensures revenue generation without compromising access to essential healthcare services.
The debate highlights the ongoing tension between fiscal reforms and public service affordability, with healthcare professionals urging policymakers to prioritize patient welfare in budget decisions.
