ISLAMABAD: The health ministry and Nadra are working on a plan to introduce `One Patient One ID` system which will enable access to a patient`s medical record from anywhere in Pakistan at any time will be possible.

Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal held a special meeting with Nadra Chairman Lt Gen Mohammad Munir Afsar on Wednesday to discuss the different aspects of the new system, `One Patient One ID`.

`The national identity card number will now serve as the MR number,` said Mustafa Kamal.

He said there was no comprehensive data available on patients` medical history in Pakistan`s health system.

`We are introducing a single MR number across Pakistan and thenational identity card number would now serve as the MR number,` the minister said, adding that it must be noted that Nadra is Pakistan`s largest data bank.

He said the Ministry of Health and Nadra would work together to deliver healthcare services at people`s doorsteps.

`Through telemedicine, doctors and medicines will be brought to patients` doorsteps,` Mr Kamal said, adding that `utilising modern technology is the need of the hour`.

He said due to increasing population and pressure on medical services, healthcare centres were under stress.

`70pc of people go to large hospitals for treatment instead of visiting basic health units,` he added. Staff Reporter