The Aga Khan University Hospital, while commemorating its 40th anniversary this year, has expanded its Clifton Medical Services (CMS), in response to the growing demand for its high-quality healthcare services. CMS has been operational since 2003 and is a premium healthcare service provider in Karachi's Clifton area. It is committed to offering round-the-clock care to patients in the vicinity of their homes and workplaces.
A plaque unveiling ceremony was held on November 29, 2023 at AKU's Stadium Road campus to recognise the Lakhani family for generously supporting the expansion of CMS. Princess Zahra Aga Khan, other members of the AKU Board of Trustees and senior leaders of the University joined the ceremony to appreciate the donors.
“The Gulbanoo Hasanali Lakhani Building [housing the CMS] is unlike any other in AKU's portfolio: a new breed of ambulatory care facility that marries primary care, urgent care, and sophisticated diagnostics," President Sulaiman Shahabuddin said. “Embodying our commitment to bringing high-quality care as close to the family doorstep as possible, it represents not just an expansion but a transformation of Clifton Medical Services."
To accommodate increased demand, CMS has now been expanded from a two- to a four-floor facility. This expansion has enabled AKUH to offer additional consulting clinics, outpatient diagnostic services and improved rehabilitation services.
“The expansion has created a wonderful ambiance, reduced waiting time and overall enhanced experience for our patients," said Dr Farhat Abbas, CEO of the Aga Khan University Health Services, Pakistan. “We are now able to offer a diverse range of specialised care for men, women and children of all ages. The additional space has allowed us to introduce new in-demand advanced services such as daycare chemotherapy, daycare dialysis and aesthetic dermatology along with expanded space for urgent care service, diagnostic and food services."
Radiology services have significantly improved with the expansion of CMS. Previously, patients had to travel to the Aga Khan University Hospital or to distant hospitals for advanced imaging services. But CMS now offers a wide range of radiology services, including CT scans, mammograms and Dexa scans.
Laboratory services have been expanded to accommodate an increase in the number of urgent care beds. In addition, a larger pharmacy with a dedicated vaccination window has been established.
CMS now offers a designated area for patient teaching and a cafeteria. Vibrant colours, comfortable and modern furniture and transparent storefronts for the pharmacy create a welcoming atmosphere. These features collectively improve the appearance of the building and foster a positive ambience throughout the facility.
“There is a misconception that the patients who come to CMS are all from affluent backgrounds," CEO Abbas said. “In fact, we serve a large number of patients at CMS who can't afford the full cost of their treatment." Such patients receive financial support through the AKUH Patient Welfare Programme. Powered by the Hospital's own resources and the generosity of donors, the programme ensures that no patient is denied healthcare because of financial constraints.
With its enhanced services, CMS is set to provide even better services to the residents of Clifton and surrounding areas, thanks to the generosity of the Lakhani family.
