Filter clinics to be set up in 3 Pindi hospitals

RAWALPINDI:

On the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, it has been decided to establish formal filter clinics in three government hospitals of Rawalpindi city to implement a quick response healthcare system amid a continuous increase in the number of patients.

On the pattern of PIMS Hospital, the establishment of filter clinics will help end the direct overload on emergency and OPD departments and ensure timely and improved treatment facilities.

According to officials, filter clinics will be set up at Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto General Hospital and Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital. In this regard, a demand for funds for buildings, waiting areas and required medical equipment has been sent to the Punjab government along with other details.

The Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department will soon place a summary before Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for approval of funds, building designs, and the appointment of specialist doctors and supporting staff for each department.

With the establishment of filter clinics, a large number of patients visiting these hospitals will receive the required treatment there and be discharged, while emergency and OPD-related patients will be referred to the relevant departments. Improved healthcare management through quick response will ensure better treatment facilities.

Holy Family Hospital, the city's largest hospital with a capacity of 1,052 beds and 25 operational theatres, has recently undergone a revamping worth Rs3.60 billion. The Punjab government has also approved Rs400 million for surgical equipment for its 25 operation theatres.

A further demand of Rs500 million has now been sent for filter clinic buildings, waiting areas and necessary equipment. Similar funds are being sought for Benazir Bhutto General Hospital and Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital, and work has begun in this regard.