Women and Children Hospital: DC recommends disciplinary action against gynaecologist

Doctor, ultra-sonologist, two others absent from duty

HARIPUR: Haripur Deputy Commissioner Tasleem Khan has recommended legal action against the gynaecologist, ultra sonologist and two other medical officers of the Women and Children Hospital, Haripur. Tasleem made the recommendation in a letter to the general health provincial director, health secretary and Hazara commissioner on Monday.

During a surprise visit to the hospital Monday morning, the DC found the district gynecologist, Dr Amira Takrim, absent from duty while over 25 patients had been waiting for her for over two hours. The patients told the DC Takrim had a private practice during the hours she was supposed to be at the government hospital.

The DC also visited the ultrasound department and found ultra-sonologist Dr Mehvish absent from work and that a staff member was referring all the patients to a private ultra-sonologist. Tasleem also expressed disapproval at the lack of hygiene in the children’s ward, gynaecology operation theatre and the emergency department.

After shifting District Headquarters Hospital to a new building a decade ago, the existing building was turned into Women and Children Hospital but has not been allocated separate funds, facilities or adequate staff. On paper it is still considered part of DHQ Hospital instead of as a separate entity. Though this problem has been brought to the notice of the local political leadership and provincial health secretary, it remains unresolved. Takrim, the district gynaecologist, due to her absence, could not be approached for comments.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 30^th, 2015.