NIH begins working on “one patient, one ID” health record system in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Health Services has teamed up with the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) to launch a unified digital medical record system under the banner of the “One Patient, One ID” initiative.

As part of the project, each citizen’s Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) number will serve as their unique Medical Record (MR) number.

The step aims to centralise and digitise healthcare data, allowing medical professionals to access patient records from anywhere in the country.

Federal Health Minister Dr. Mustafa Kamal shared details of the initiative following a meeting with Nadra Chairman Lt Gen Muhammad Munir Afsar on Wednesday.

“There is currently no centralised system to track patients’ medical history in Pakistan,” said Dr. Kamal. “By using CNICs as MR numbers, we’re creating a standardised system that will enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery nationwide.”

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He noted that Nadra, as the custodian of Pakistan’s most comprehensive citizen database, would play a crucial role in building and maintaining this system.

Dr. Kamal further highlighted the government’s broader vision for digital health transformation. “Through telemedicine, we aim to deliver healthcare services and medicines directly to people’s homes. Embracing modern technology is essential to strengthening our health infrastructure,” he stated.

The initiative is expected to ease record-sharing between hospitals, reduce misdiagnoses, and support long-term policy planning through better data collection and analysis.