Dr. Rafiq Ahmad

Dr. Rafiq Ahmad (born 30 January 1960) is a Pakistani physician and seasoned public health administrator currently serving as Regional Director (North Punjab) at the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC). With over 40 years of experience, he has led critical healthcare reforms, regulatory operations, and disease control programs across Punjab.

Born in Rawalpindi into a Kashmiri family originally from Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Ahmad was raised with a deep understanding of healthcare needs in underserved communities. He completed his early education at Saint Paul School and Sir Syed College in Rawalpindi. He earned his MBBS from Punjab Medical College, Faisalabad (1978–1985), and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the Institute of Public Health, affiliated with the University of Health Sciences (2003–2004).

Dr. Ahmad began his medical career as a urologist at Benazir Bhutto Hospital and later held positions at Samli Sanitorium, District Headquarters Hospital, and in private practice. His administrative expertise came into full force in leadership roles such as Director Health Services, Rawalpindi Division; District Officer Health; and Project Director for the National Maternal, Neonatal & Child Health (MNCH) Program.

As Medical Superintendent of Benazir Bhutto Hospital (2019–2021), he led major hospital preparedness initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, including setting up isolation wards and implementing queue management systems. In 2021, he was appointed Regional Director at PHC, where he has overseen a 37% reduction in unlicensed practice, 1,200+ facility inspections, and enforcement of Minimum Service Delivery Standards.

He has also led dengue prevention, polio eradication, and mass awareness campaigns. His work has earned him honors like the Best Hospital Administrator Award (2020), WHO Certificate of Merit (2004), and COVID-19 Response Award (2021). He is married with four children and remains committed to improving healthcare delivery in Pakistan.