LHC orders end to 'parchi' system in Punjab hospitals

LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court has directed the Punjab government to abolish the existing 'parchi' (registration slip) system in all public-sector hospitals across the province within four weeks, requiring patients to receive medical attention without having to obtain slips or wait in long queues at registration counters.

Justice Malik Javid Iqbal Wains issued the directions while hearing a public interest petition seeking enforcement of the fundamental rights to life and healthcare, as well as implementation of superior courts' judgments regarding the provision of basic medical facilities in government hospitals.

The court was informed that the Punjab Health Department would introduce a modern, technology-based patient management system to ensure prompt treatment for emergency cases and outpatients, while eliminating unnecessary delays.

The judge directed the authorities concerned to implement an undertaking given by Special Secretary (Health) Nabila Irfan and submit a detailed compliance report at the next hearing, supported by documentary evidence outlining the steps taken to replace the existing system with a patient-friendly mechanism.

The court also sought comprehensive reports from all respondents addressing the grievances raised in the petition and detailing measures taken to ensure the availability of essential healthcare facilities.

The order noted that the public interest petition had remained pending since 2020, highlighting persistent shortages of essential medical facilities and difficulties faced by patients seeking treatment at public hospitals.