LAHORE (Dunya News) – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced that hospital emergency departments have been linked with the Safe City system.
Addressing a health conference in the provincial capital, she emphasized that transparency in the healthcare sector is essential. She noted that over 10,300 children have received life-saving heart surgeries, giving them a new lease on life.
She stated that modern equipment and technology can revolutionize healthcare. Expert surgeons have been appointed for complex pediatric heart surgeries, and previously available medicines were not being given to patients despite stock availability.
The CM said that all types of medicines are now available in hospitals. “I will not allow the poor’s money to be eaten up through corruption. Efforts will be made so no patient has to travel to another city for treatment. Patients visiting public hospitals are not wealthy,” she added.
Maryam Nawaz said that a budget of Rs 630 billion has been allocated for the health sector in Punjab. She warned that fluctuations in healthcare quality can cost lives, adding that comprehensive efforts are being made for the development of the sector, and citizens are benefitting from improved facilities.
She mentioned that modern facilities are also being provided at basic health centers across Punjab. Complaints regarding broken CT scan and MRI machines will be addressed promptly to ensure patients do not face inconvenience.
The CM highlighted that many complaints about doctors not being on duty have been received. “If doctors do not use mobile phones during duty hours, it will not cause any disaster. Due to repeated complaints, this strict decision had to be taken. All emergencies have now been linked with the Safe City system,” she said.
She recalled her visit to Jinnah Hospital a year ago, where patients reported that medicines were unavailable. “Even with stock in the hospital, patients were asked to procure medicines from outside. On checking the stock room, it was found full of medicines. I personally inspect public hospitals,” she added.
Maryam Nawaz instructed that dustbins near patient beds should be kept clean, as unclean bins attract cockroaches, and hospital washrooms must be maintained. She also emphasized ensuring fire safety systems in all hospitals.
She pointed out that fires in hospitals often start due to short circuits. “There should only be one patient per bed instead of two or three. 1,500 new doctors and 5,000–6,000 nurses have been recruited. Doctors must consider saving human lives their mission,” she concluded.