Overcoming Limited Resources to Improve Patient Health: An Interview with Syed Waqas Ali Bokhari

What led you to where you are today?

My journey started in the government health sector before I transitioned to research roles at the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan, Interactive Research & Development Global, and now Muslim Hands Pakistan. My focus has been on enhancing community health, developing program strategies, and collaborating with international stakeholders to maximize the impact of health initiatives in my country.

What unique healthcare challenges does your country face?

Pakistan faces a high prevalence of infectious and non-communicable diseases. The healthcare system struggles with inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, and a shortage of trained medical professionals. Rural areas lack access to essential health services, and the impacts of climate change, malnutrition, and a growing population strain the already overburdened healthcare system.

What is the biggest challenge you face in your work?

The biggest challenge I face in my work is the limited funding and resources, which make it difficult to implement programs effectively and sustainably. This necessitates prioritizing specific interventions and making tough decisions about resource allocation. Additionally, many of the communities we serve are in remote and hard-to-reach areas, making consistent service delivery challenging and requiring innovative approaches to overcome logistical barriers.

What’s something that you’ve been most proud of in your career so far?

One of the proudest moments in my career so far has been graduating from GHDI. It is my first international certification in Global Health, and having my whole family attend the graduation ceremony made it incredibly special. Seeing their happiness and pride was a life-changing moment for me and reaffirmed my dedication to public health.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in healthcare in your country?

I would advise anyone starting in healthcare in Pakistan that if you’re in it for the money, this field may not be for you. If you have a genuine passion for serving unreached communities, eliminating diseases, and easing the burden of illness, then you’re on the right path. Dedication is essential, and you’ll find immense fulfillment in the positive impact you can create.

What continues to fuel your inspiration and drive your work?

Witnessing the struggles of people living in border areas with very little access to healthcare motivates me to strive for a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system in my country. The resilience and determination of these communities inspires me to continue advocating for improved access to essential health services and work towards positive change.

What impact do you think GHDI will have on your career?

The GHDI program made me realize the importance of integrating more research and evidence into my work. By leveraging evidence-based practices, I aim to enhance the impact of the healthcare programs I manage, leading to better health outcomes for the communities I serve. 

What is your advice to someone thinking about applying to GHDI?

My advice is that if you have dedication, passion, and a willingness to invest your time, then you should apply. It’s not just about obtaining a certificate from one of the world’s best institutions; it’s about making a genuine commitment to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the field of global health.