Defending records: Health commission rejects PMA’s criticism

Says election of new convener was according to rules.

LAHORE:

The Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) on Monday criticised the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) for claiming that it had not been consulted over healthcare reforms.

A PHC spokesperson on Monday said the commission was working in accordance with the law. He rejected criticism over the election of a new convener of the Technical Advisory Committee. “The TAC meeting held on June 12 is entirely lawful and in accordance with rules,” he said.

“The convener was elected by TAC members with consensus because the PMA candidate was not seconded by any member,” he said. Certain elements that had a negative mindset were raising objections on the election.

The PMA had also claimed that it had not been consulted in preparing the Minimum Delivery Standards (MSDS). The PHC spokesperson also rejected the claims, saying that the commission had consulted all stakeholders in the preparation and implementation of standards.

“The agenda for the meeting, including MSDS, was prepared after consulting experts. TAC recommended the proposal for approval through consensus,” he said.

The spokesperson also criticised the language used for the PHC and its senior management at the PMA press conference. “Such ill-advised remarks are unprofessional and unethical and we reserve the right to take appropriate legal action,” the spokesman said.

While referring to the appointment of the chief operating officer, the spokesperson said that the matter was sub-judice before the Lahore High Court. “The PMA’s negative propaganda in this regard is entirely unlawful and against the spirit of justice,” he said.“The doors of the commission are open to all stakeholders in improving healthcare. All the healthcare and service providers are under obligation to fulfil their obligations under the PHC Act, 2010,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 24^th, 2014.