DG health orders rain emergency in all hospitals

KARACHI:

Sindh Health Department Director General Dr Jamun Bahuto has written a letter to all district health officers, hospital officials and other agencies, directing them to remain vigilant during the heavy rains and urban flooding.

The letter cites the weather alert of the Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted more rains in Karachi and other parts of Sindh from July 14 to 19. The downpours could lead to urban flooding.

Accordingly, the DG directed all officers concerned to establish control rooms in district health offices and hospitals. "A 24-hour emergency should be declared in all hospitals to tackle any untoward situation," the letter orders.

The official suspended the grant of leaves for health care providers and medical staff at the public health facilities. He also advised the deployment of additional medical staff and security personnel if needed and to ensure the availability of power backup, medical consultants and all necessary medicines.

Further directions were issued to ensure the provision of ambulance service and 24-hour facilities of transportation and shifting of patients in an emergency situation.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 14^th, 2022.