The Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA) has strongly criticized recent statements made by the Punjab Chief Minister, accusing the government of unfairly targeting doctors to obscure its own failings within the provincial healthcare sector. Highlighting hospitals’ critical shortage of essential medicines, medical equipment, and surgical supplies, PIMA stressed that the responsibility for these inadequacies lies squarely with policymakers and relevant departmental authorities, rather than with medical professionals.
In a statement issued by Prof. Muhammad Humayun, President of PIMA Central Punjab, the association urged the provincial leadership to hold appropriate departments accountable for the healthcare sector’s deteriorating conditions. Prof. Humayun appealed directly to the Punjab Chief Minister for immediate corrective action to ensure the consistent supply of vital medicines and basic facilities across all teaching and district hospitals in the province.
Prof. Humayun emphasized the unfairness and injustice of blaming dedicated medical professionals without thorough investigation, asserting such actions distract from addressing the real issues plaguing the healthcare system. He highlighted that doctors’ fundamental duty remains treating and caring for patients, and this can only be effectively carried out when necessary medications and equipment are readily available.
Pointing out specific deficiencies, Prof. Humayun stated that hospitals across Punjab currently face unpaid bills amounting to approximately PKR 14 billion for medicines alone. This massive backlog of payments has created a severe shortage not only of crucial, life-saving medications but also basic items such as painkillers. Additionally, the crisis extends to essential surgical instruments and medical consumables, with shortages now reaching alarming and unprecedented levels.
Concluding the statement, PIMA demanded the provincial government seriously acknowledge the gravity of the healthcare crisis and focus on meaningful reforms. Stressing the importance of a supportive and trusting environment for healthcare personnel, the association urged authorities to prioritize the welfare of both patients and frontline medical staff, enabling them to perform their duties effectively and efficiently.
