Pakistan, Oct. 17 -- ISLAMABAD - The prices of medical devices, diagnostic kits, and essential healthcare equipment have surged by nearly 50 percent, sparking concern among patients, hospitals, and healthcare providers nationwide. The sharp rise has placed an additional burden on citizens already struggling with high inflation and costly medical treatments.

The price of basic mobility aids such as wheelchairs has doubled, increasing from Rs 9,000 to Rs 18,000, while crutches now cost between Rs 2,500 and Rs 4,000, up from Rs 700 to Rs 1,600. Similarly, diagnostic tools have become significantly more expensive. The price of sugar meters has jumped from Rs 500-1,000 to Rs 2,000-2,500, while stethoscopes now range between Rs 2,000 and Rs 3,...