CPSP approves affiliation of Haripur DHQ

Medics hope move will address issue of rising referral cases

HARIPUR:

The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) has approved the affiliation of Haripur District Headquarters Hospital with the Teaching Hospital.

Initially, approval has been given for the medical and surgical wards, with expectations that gynae, peds, orthopaedic, cardiac, and other wards will also receive approval by June.

This initiative is poised to significantly diminish referral cases, benefiting both patients and trainee doctors. The effort of the Provincial Doctors Association (PDA) received support from the chief minister, governor, and administration.

A function organised by PDA at a local hotel saw Provincial Doctors Association Haripur Chairman Dr Javed Iqbal, along with Dr Sajjad Khan, Dr Atiq, Dr Tahir Angais, Dr Akhtar Zaman, President of Haripur Press Club, Zakir Hussain Tanoli, and District Health Officer Haripur, Dr Nasir Shah, addressing the audience. Speakers expressed gratitude for the support of the chief minister, governor, and administration towards the laudable efforts of the Provincial Doctors Association Haripur. With this affiliation, DHQ Haripur is now positioned to serve the community more effectively, similar to Ayub Teaching Hospital and Lady Reading Hospital.

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The speakers highlighted the commencement of training in medical and surgical fields under the supervision of Surgeon Dr Javed Iqbal and medical specialist Dr Tahir Angais. The introduction of evening and night shifts, coupled with increased doctor availability, is expected to substantially reduce referral cases, benefiting both the public and doctors. Additionally, facilities for FCPS candidates will be provided. Haripur DHO emphasised the role of the medical community in contributing to the welfare of humanity, suggesting that lighting candles with good intentions make goals more achievable. President of Press Club, Zakir Hussain Tanoli, credited PDA for successfully securing the status of DHQ Haripur as a teaching hospital and preserving historical sites. Upgrading the DHQ status is seen as a measure that not only prevents referrals for poor patients but also provides valuable training opportunities for doctors in the region.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2024.