Board directs MTIs to enforce 2026 reforms

The Policy Board for Medical Teaching Institutions (MTIs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued directives to all MTI hospitals to ensure full compliance with the newly enacted Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Medical Teaching Institutions Reforms (Amendment) Act, 2026, which was passed by the provincial assembly earlier this year.

A draft of the amended legislation has been forwarded to the MTI hospitals, outlining significant changes aimed at streamlining administrative processes, enhancing accountability, and improving overall performance in the province's government-owned teaching hospitals and affiliated medical institutions.

Under the amendments, employees facing grievances must first approach a newly established Grievance and Redressal Committee within their institution before filing an appeal with the MTI Appellate Tribunal. This internal mechanism serves as the mandatory first step to resolve disputes. While employees retain the right to send unresolved matters to the Tribunal, the Tribunal lacks authority to suspend decisions made by the Grievance Committee.

The reforms also modify the eligibility and tenure requirements for judges serving on the Appellate Tribunal, potentially allowing greater flexibility in appointments. Additionally, the Policy Board has been delegated authority from the Board of Governors to frame regulations, which MTI Boards will then be required to implement uniformly across institutions.

To maintain consistency and oversight, any deviation from government policies or core standards, particularly under Section 4A subsection (4), now requires prior approval from either the government or the Policy Board.

A key provision introduces performance-based accountability: Each medical teaching institution will report directly to the provincial Health Minister and submit regular performance data within stipulated timelines. This data will form the basis for evaluations under government-mandated monitoring formats, influencing decisions on attendance incentives, disciplinary measures, and progress toward periodically set targets.