Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in Karachi has achieved a historic milestone in healthcare. On April 14, 2026, AKUH became the first hospital in Pakistan and entire South Asia to receive the prestigious Joint Commission International (JCI) Gold Seal of Approval® for two major surgical programmes: heart bypass surgery (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft or CABG) and age-related (senile) cataract surgery.
This rare recognition came after a rigorous evaluation by JCI experts in April 2026. The assessment checked every step of patient care, from preparation and surgery to recovery and follow-up. The Gold Seal confirms that AKUH meets the highest global standards for safety, quality, and reliability in these specialised treatments.
AKUH is now only the second hospital in the world to earn this certification for cataract surgery and one of just three globally for heart bypass surgery. This places the hospital among a very small group of elite medical centres worldwide.
The achievement reflects AKUH’s strong commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in patient care. CEO Dr Farhat Abbas said the certification gives patients greater confidence that they are receiving world-class treatment at home.
For thousands of Pakistanis needing heart or eye surgery, this means safer procedures, better outcomes, and reduced need to travel abroad for high-quality care.
AKUH stated that this is not a one-time award but part of its ongoing efforts to maintain international benchmarks and build trust with every patient.
