Ban on import leads to shortage of x-ray films
Clinical lead Doctor Al Story points to an x-ray showing a pair of lungs infected with TB. PHOTO: REUTERS
Pakistan is facing serious shortage of x-ray films because of the restrictions on the import.
"We see serious healthcare crisis in the country in coming weeks as this is the first time we face such a situation," claimed Syed Haider Ali Naqvi, the CEO of Fujifilm.
He warned that the situation may aggravate if prompt action is not taken.
Naqvi mentioned, it may not be possible for hospitals to do surgeries without essential equipment such as x-ray films, printers, imaging plates, mammography and ultrasound machines.
Sharing the overall impact on the healthcare system, Naqvi pointed out that over 5,000 hospitals and around 2,000 diagnostic centers will e affected by this problem.
Naqvi said, illegal means will be encouraged if no measures are taken.
"It will also affect the system of proper treatment," Syed Jameed Hussain, another senior official of the imaging industry said.
Sheikh Danish Javed of Konica Films said that the situation was very critical that will ultimately affect the healthcare system.
They appealed Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and National Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel to look into the matter.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 6th, 2023.