National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday approved a comprehensive support package for frontline healthcare workers (HCWS) that would help the frontline warriors in seven areas in terms of their financial aspects.

The seven areas include tax exemption for frontline HCWs including Shuhada Package for all HCWs from Rs3 to 10 million.

Secondly, in terms of providing security and protection, NCOC decided to provide the adequate provision of PPEs (N-95 etc) to all frontline health workers responsible for COVID-19 patient care. And also to ensure security for hospitals and staff involved in COVID patient care (both private and public).

PEMRA would lay down code of conduct for print/electronic media to refrain from character assassination of HCWs.

The training of frontline HCWs in critical care management of COVID patients in both private and public would be ensured while training program for rational use of PPEs as part of the WeCare Program (both private and public).

As per the Support Mechanism, provision of requisite psycho-social support through WeCare (both private & public) and a National Helpline 1166 is being configured to address individual concerns of all HCWs on fast track basis.

Health Care would be provided when needed and HCWs testing will be prioritized and prioritized health care and provision of specialized medicines for the treatment of all infected HCWs.

NCOC decided that families health care through empanelled hospitals would also be provided.

Interest-free loans for private hospitals as part of Private Health Sector Support to ensure payment of salaries.

NCOC said special tax exemptions for the import of equipment and accessories required for the establishment of critical care facilities.

The National Command and Operation Centre said national recognition at the national level like including Honour and Awards on National days would be given to the frontline warriors.