Minister removes THQ hospital MS over negligence

Orders transfer of doctors posted in MLC unit

FAISALABAD/LAHORE:

Punjab Minister for Health and Population Khawaja Imran Nazir has removed the medical superintendent of Jaranwala Tehsil Headquarters Hospital after observing administrative lapses and negligence during a surprise visit.

He expressed dissatisfaction over lack of CT scan equipment installation after nine months.

Complaints were also received from citizens regarding bribery in the issuance of medico-legal certificates (MLCs). In response, the minister ordered the formation of an audit team and the transfer of doctors posted in the MLC unit.

He ordered an investigation into the record of medicines provided to patients over the past six months. He enquired from patients about the availability of medical services and medicines.

The minister also expressed anger over poor sanitary conditions in the hospital and ordered strict action against those responsible.

Departmental action was also ordered against a lady doctor found absent from duty.

The minister emphasised that regular feedback would be taken from his team regarding service delivery and action would be taken against unnecessary referral of patients to other cities.

Speaking to the media, Khawaja Imran Nazir announced that an Emergency Response Programme will be launched in all district and tehsil-level hospitals in the province within the next three months to modernise and enhance emergency services.

He added that doctors' attendance is being strictly monitored and a system of reward and punishment has been implemented to ensure accountability.

On this occasion, MPA Khan Bahadur Dogar and Assistant Commissioner Rungzaib Goraya accompanied the minister.

Meanwhile, Khawaja Imran Nazir and Speacialised healthcare Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique issued directives during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Infectious Diseases to provide staff of Population Welfare Clinics to anti-dengue teams in high-risk areas.

Khawaja Imran said that in view of the recent rains, work should be done on an emergency basis to prevent the spread of dengue across the province. He said cooperative housing societies need to remain active for the purpose, water should not stagnate at construction sites and attendance of field staff should be ensured.

He said more hard work is required in the dengue season this year as compared to the past. Surveillance should specially be conducted in junkyards and graveyards.