The story of Indus Hospital is not just about healthcareits a tale of selfless dedication and unwavering faith. It all began in 1981 when Dr. Abdul Bari Khan joined Dow Medical College. Alongside his academic excellence, he possessed an extraordinary empathy for those in need.
During his years as a medical student, Dr. Bari and his friends actively worked for patient welfare. In 1987, when a tragic explosion struck Soldier Bazaar, they rushed to help victims, only to find Civil Hospitals emergency ward overwhelmed. Determined to improve healthcare facilities, they initiated a fundraising campaign, collecting over PKR 3.2 million to establish a well-equipped emergency ward.
Realizing the dire need for safe blood donation, Dr. Bari also played a key role in setting up a blood bank to prevent reliance on unreliable sources. His experiences fueled a greater vision: a free hospital for all.
The Birth of Indus Hospital
In2004, after years of hard work and unwavering belief, Dr. Bari and his friends came together to fulfill their student-era pledge. They acquired 20 acres in Korangi Creek, Karachi, and by July 2007, Indus Hospital opened its doors a completely free-of-cost healthcare facility.
Initially, the hospital had 150 beds with an annual budget of PKR 800 million. Skeptics doubted its sustainability, but faith and public support turned the impossible into reality. The hospital grew rapidly, increasing to 300 beds, then 1,000, and by 2024, it is set to expand to 1,800 beds.
Pakistans First Paperless, Cashless Hospital
Indus Hospital is not only one of Pakistans most advanced medical institutions, but it is also unique because it has no cash counterstreatment is entirely free. The hospital is paperless, with all records digitally managed, ensuring efficiency and seamless patient care.
In the past 11 years,no patient has been turned away due to financial constraints. Regardless of social class, every individual receives treatment on a first-come, first-served basis. From complex surgeries to routine treatments, the hospital caters to nearly all medical needs.
Public Support: The Backbone of Indus Hospital
Running a world-class charity hospital requires enormous funding. Today, Indus Hospitals budget exceeds PKR 15 billion, with an astonishing 92% of donations coming from within Pakistan. More than 50% of these contributions originate from Karachi alone. The spirit of anonymous giving is remarkable 70% of donors contribute under the name Abdullah, seeking rewards in the hereafter.
A Legacy of Service Over Luxury
Dr. Abdul Bari had the opportunity to move abroad for a lucrative career, but he chose service over comfort. Instead of criticizing the system from a distance, he built a solution from within.
This journey underscores an important lesson: there are two kinds of peoplethose who complain about problems and those who create solutions. Indus Hospital is a shining example of what faith, dedication, and public trust can achieve.
As Pakistans largest charity hospital network, Indus Hospital continues to grow, ensuring that no one in need is denied medical care.