As of 2023, nearly 35 per cent of female doctors remain unemployed, mostly because many of them have had to leave their careers and ambitions after marriage due to societal pressures and concerns about childcare. This challenge can be addressed by introducing affordable and good quality daycare facilities in both private and government hospitals.
Subsidised daycare would allow female doctors and nurses – and other working women for that matter – to return to work postpartum without stress or hesitation, knowing their children are safe, cared for and near them.
These daycare centres should be equipped with modern facilities like cameras, so parents can check on their children whenever they want. By investing in such childcare solutions, we not only can support working mothers but can also strengthen Pakistan’s healthcare workforce. Setting up daycare centres in Pakistan’s hospitals isn’t just a convenience, it’s vital to keep our healthcare system fully staffed and help save lives.
Alishba Saleem
Karachi
