Islamabad (Nadeem Tanoli) The Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulation, and Coordination, chaired by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, convened to address significant issues in Pakistan’s healthcare system, including nursing shortages, mental health services, and the operational challenges at the Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital in Islamabad.
The committee deliberated on the “Pakistan Nursing Council (#PNMC) (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” presented by MNA Syed Rafiullah. Members expressed grave concerns over the administrative paralysis at the Pakistan Nursing Council, which has disrupted the functioning of nursing institutions and exacerbated the critical shortage of qualified nurses. The committee unanimously called for the Prime Minister’s intervention to resolve the impasse. The bill was deferred until the Ministry of Health Services could provide further information.
Discussions also revolved around the “Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (#PMDC) (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” and the “Islamabad Healthcare Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” moved by MNA Shaista Pervaiz. The committee emphasized the need to regulate the profession of psychology to address the increasing demand for mental health services and ensure mental health professionals are properly certified. Both bills were deferred to the next meeting.
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council briefed the committee on measures taken to address discrepancies in the MDCAT 2024 examination. The committee was informed that a retest is scheduled for December, with stringent safeguards to prevent paper leaks and ensure transparency. Enhanced exam monitoring and adherence to recommendations from earlier evaluations were highlighted.
The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the condition of the Federal Government #Polyclinic Hospital in #Islamabad, citing outdated equipment, medicine shortages, and inadequate patient care. Members demanded immediate upgrades to the hospital’s infrastructure to meet the needs of patients and healthcare professionals. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Special Assistant to the National Assembly on Health, assured the committee of ongoing improvements, including the provision of free medicines, surgery, and dental services. He also highlighted the progress made in diagnostic services like MRI and CT scans.
The committee stressed the need for comprehensive reforms in healthcare, particularly in the areas of nursing, mental health, and public healthcare infrastructure. Members underscored the importance of equitable access to healthcare, reiterating that quality medical services should not be a privilege limited by socioeconomic status.
The meeting was attended by MNAs, including Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, Ms. Zahra Wadood Fatemi, and Ms. Aliya Kamran, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Health and related departments. The Standing Committee reaffirmed its commitment to addressing critical healthcare issues and improving the health and well-being of the citizens of Pakistan.
Committee Addresses Polyclinic Shortcomings and Nursing Council Crisis, Calls for Urgent Reforms
