Beyond Doctors: The Rise of Allied Health Professionals

Why Allied Health Sciences Are the Future of Medical Careers in Pakistan: A Paradigm Shift in Healthcare.

In the 21st century, healthcare is no longer the sole domain of doctors and nurses; the spotlight has shifted from traditional MBBS / BDS or Generic Nursing tracks to the dynamic and rapidly expanding field of Allied Health Sciences (AHS). A silent revolution is underway— Globally, over 60–70% of the healthcare workforce falls under allied health professions, playing critical roles in patient care, diagnostics, therapy, rehabilitation, surgery, and public health. In Pakistan, this emerging sector is rapidly growing due to the rising demand for specialized care and a critical shortage of trained technologists receiving the attention it rightfully deserves.

Pakistan’s Health Crisis: A Call for Skilled Support

With just 0.9 physicians per 1,000 people (World Bank, 2022) and a fast-growing population, additionally As per Pakistan Economic Survey 2023, the doctor-to-population ratio is 1:970, while the technologist-to-patient ratio is alarmingly low—almost 1:4000, which critically hampers service delivery across both public and private healthcare facilities.

In response, universities and accredited institutions like Saint Mary’s College of Medical & Advance Studies – Gujranwala are taking the lead in offering accredited BS Allied Health Sciences programs to fill this gap and align Pakistan with global healthcare workforce standards.

Pakistan faces an acute shortage of mid-level healthcare providers. Allied health professionals bridge this gap, AHS roles are not only vital in hospitals but essential in preventive and public health services.

Economic Relevance

According to a World Bank report (2022), investments in allied health education improve healthcare outcomes and reduce systemic costs. Moreover, global markets such as the Middle East, Europe, and North America are now actively recruiting allied health professionals from South Asia, particularly from Pakistan-India-Bangladesh and Srilanka. Fields like radiologic technology, surgical assistance, laboratory diagnostics, physiotherapy, and clinical nutrition are in high demand with salaries that are often 3–5 times higher than local equivalents.

Global Demand, Local Opportunity

Internationally, countries like Gulf countrieis Saudi Arabia, UAE and Euro Countries Germany, and the UK have formalized visa streams or job quotas for allied health technologists and paramedical staff.

Pakistani students who graduate from recognized institutions are qualifying for these placements through international credentialing boards and licensing exams.. Pakistan’s workforce potential remains untapped—training more DPTs, Medical Lab Technologists, Surgical Techs, Imaging Technologists like Sonography-CT-MRI-Memography and Clinical Dietitians could open doors to overseas placements and remittance inflow, a much-needed boost to the economy.

Diverse Fields, One Future

Located in the academic heart of Gujranwala, Saint Mary’s College of Medical & Advance Studies is a recognized and affiliated institution offering a comprehensive range of BS Allied Health Science degree programs, including:

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

• BS Medical Lab Technology (MLT)

• BS Radiology & Imaging Technology (RIT)

• BS Surgical Technology & Operation Theatre Technology (OTT)

• BS Human Nutrition & Dietetics (HND)

• BS Biotechnology with Forensic Science

Each program is crafted to meet HEC & GCUF standards, These programs are designed with a focus on clinical competence, global relevance, and employability—with an emphasis on internships, research exposure, and overseas certification readiness.

Economic Impact: Facts and Figures

Pakistan’s allied health workforce remains an untapped resource with immense economic potential.

Provides employment to thousands, with increasing demand both locally and internationally

Spotlight on Degree & Diploma Programs at Saint Mary’s College; Diploma in MLT- RIT- OTT- Anaesthesia - Dental Hygienist - Dental Technology - Ophthalmic and Pharmacist Cat-B

Final Word

As Pakistan prepares to meet Vision 2030 healthcare goals, investing in Allied Health Sciences is not optional—it is essential. Saint Mary’s College invites aspiring students to join the movement and transform medical care—one career at a time.