Addressing the pressing need for enhanced screening and testing, the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi has stepped up its efforts. It has now established a dedicated COVID-19 Screening and Testing Zone (CSTZ), within the Stadium Road Campus premises in Karachi. Syed Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister, Sindh virtually toured and inaugurated the facility.
Source: AKUH
In-line with its vision and mission, the University Hospital experts feel honored and humbled to work with the Sindh and the Federal governments. Together, they aim to fight the pandemic by providing technical and capacity-building support.
The University Hospital has developed a comprehensive plan to telescreen and test patients in a set-up that is on campus. However, it is away and separated from the outpatient clinics and the main hospital.
Source: AKUH
For the first time in Pakistan, patients will stand in single modular booths. This will ensure to have a physical barrier separating them and the healthcare staff. This booth set up was designed in-house and will help eliminate patient-healthcare professional infection and contamination. It will also conserve precious supplies of personal protective equipment worn by the staff.
Additional processes have been included in already strict infection control protocols. It also includes clear physical distancing markings on the ground. This helps to ensure a safe environment with minimal exposure for patients, attendants, and the healthcare staff. The COVID-19 Screening and Testing Zone (CSTZ) has been thoughtfully created as a safe zone for patients to confidently visit.
Source: AKUH
“This marks a milestone for us, as our teams have worked with dedication and commitment to make the screening and testing zone available for the general public in record time. On this occasion, I would like to thank all who worked tirelessly to ease and facilitate the people of the city. We are open and are safe to visit for ALL Patients, with ALL illnesses”, said Shagufta Hasan, Interim CEO, AKUH, K.
The CSTZ has a capacity of 300 tests per day; the FREE tele-screening appointments can be booked through 021 111-911-911. Financially challenged patients will be offered support through the Patient Welfare and Zakaat support programs.
To respond to the developing situation and support the Government in its efforts to flatten the curve, AKUH, K is also offering teleconsultation clinics and home health solutions. It is also providing in-person clinics for those patients where teleconsultation is not suitable. The AKU/AKUH,K leadership remains steadfast in their commitment to providing “All Services, All Under One Roof”. The Hospital remains “Open for All Patients with All Illnesses”.
The Aga Khan University Hospital
The Aga Khan University Hospital is a not-for-profit healthcare institute that offers all medical services to their patients under one roof. In addition to the quaternary care hospital in Karachi, AKUH has a network of 4 secondary care hospitals, over 30+ Medical Centres, and over 290+ Clinical Laboratories, 20+ Pharmacies in over 120+ cities across Pakistan. It also offers Home Healthcare Services and home deliveries of medicines.
The Hospital provides Zakat for those patients who are eligible. The health systems offer generous Patient Welfare to support those in financial need. In recognition of its high quality and patient safety, the AKUH is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) as an Academic Medical Centre. Moreover, its Clinical Laboratories are accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) for fast and accurate testing.
