Hospital officials suspended over inappropriate video
The Punjab government has taken strict disciplinary action against staff members of a hospital following the circulation online of a video showing unprofessional conduct in an operation theatre.
The footage reportedly depicts medical personnel behaving inappropriately during cesarean section procedures.
Lady Willingdon Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Farah Inam and Head of Department Dr Uzma have been suspended and instructed to report to the health department headquarters for inquiry.
In addition, a woman medical officer, five postgraduate trainees, two nurses and another hospital staff member have been suspended. All employees involved have been directed to submit detailed reports explaining their role and administrative lapses that allowed such behaviour.
The video recorded during two surgeries shows teams seemingly treating the procedures as a competition with staff racing to complete them faster. Health authorities emphasised that mobile phones are strictly prohibited in operating theatres and any breach is a serious violation of hospital regulations and medical ethics.
The video highlighted the urgent need for stricter supervision and accountability in surgical settings.
Officials confirmed that the suspensions follow earlier disciplinary measures that included the temporary removal of four lady doctors as part of the ongoing investigation.
The provincial specialised healthcare and medical education secretary stated that accountability would extend to every level of hospital staff.
While some medical professionals pointed out challenges such as staffing shortages and high patient volumes in public sector hospitals, there was consensus among them that patient safety could not be compromised.
Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique stated that violations of standard operating procedures in hospitals will not be tolerated under any circumstances, adding that immediate action had been taken upon detection of negligence in the incident.
The secretary for specialised healthcare and medical education also emphasised that such actions constitute a clear breach of medical ethics, undermine patient dignity, and violate professional standards, all of which are strictly prohibited under government regulations and hospital SOPs.
The provincial government reiterated its commitment to enforcing accountability and ensuring that healthcare institutions uphold the highest standards of ethics and patient care