MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Free hepatitis C screening, diagnostic testing and treatment facilities are being introduced in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s National Programme for the Elimination of Hepatitis C, aimed at detecting infections early and preventing the spread of the disease.
Under the programme, citizens will be able to undergo initial screening, while those who test positive will receive further diagnostic testing to confirm the infection. Confirmed patients will be provided with medicines free of cost.
According to the federal government, the initiative covers free screening, diagnostic testing and treatment, to eliminate hepatitis C by 2030. The programme is being implemented directly by the federal government in AJK, Islamabad Capital Territory and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Which Hepatitis Tests Are Available?
The programme follows a two-step testing process:
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Initial screening test: A rapid test is conducted to identify people who may have hepatitis C.
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PCR test: Individuals with a positive initial screening result undergo a PCR test to confirm whether the virus is present.
A positive initial screening result does not necessarily mean a person has an active infection. PCR testing is required to confirm the diagnosis and determine the need for treatment.
What Treatment Will Patients Receive?
Patients whose hepatitis C infection is confirmed through PCR testing will receive antiviral medicines free of cost under the programme.
According to the federal health minister’s July 2026 announcement, the standard treatment course is three months, with an estimated value of Rs34,000 per patient. Additional treatment may also be provided free of charge if medically required.
Hepatitis C is curable in most cases with appropriate antiviral treatment. Early diagnosis and completion of the prescribed course can help prevent serious complications, including liver damage.
How Can Citizens Benefit From the Facility?
Residents of Azad Kashmir should visit designated government screening centres or participating health facilities to ask about availability under the Prime Minister’s programme.
Citizens are advised to:
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Ask the nearest government hospital or health facility whether hepatitis C screening is available under the programme.
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Undergo the initial screening test free of cost.
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If the result is positive, follow the referral instructions for PCR testing.
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If the infection is confirmed, consult the designated medical team to obtain free treatment and medicines.
The federal government announced that three diagnostic counters were planned for AJK in the programme’s first phase, with expansion to as many as 1,012 health facilities envisaged in the second phase. Residents should confirm which centres are currently operational before visiting.
The initiative forms part of Pakistan’s broader effort to identify undiagnosed hepatitis C infections, expand access to treatment and work towards eliminating the disease by 2030.
