ISLAMABAD: In a decisive move, the federal government convened on Monday to tackle the pressing issue of inadequate engineering and technical personnel at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). This action is part of a broader strategy to enhance the operational efficiency of the healthcare system in the aftermath of a devastating fire incident that resulted in the tragic loss of 14 infants.
The meeting followed the government’s announcement of measures to address the technical shortcomings revealed by the fire at the PIMS Mother and Child Health Centre. Health Minister Mustafa Kamal led the meeting, which included senior officials from the health ministry, PIMS administration, the Capital Development Authority (CDA), and other pertinent departments.
During the discussions, officials provided updates regarding the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system at the PIMS Mother and Child Health Centre, which had been impacted by the fire. CDA representatives noted that the restoration work on the HVAC system had been impeded due to the temporary closure of the building as investigations continued.
Immediate Actions and Staffing Solutions
Minister Kamal instructed the health secretary to reach out to the relevant authorities promptly to establish a timeline for the handover of the affected building, enabling restoration efforts to proceed without further delay. He emphasized the necessity of employing qualified engineers and technical experts from the surplus pool formed after the dissolution of the Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD) to fill the gaps at PIMS.
Additionally, it was agreed that the health ministry would formally request the Ministry of Housing and Works to assign suitable engineers, technical professionals, and other necessary staff to the hospital. Minister Kamal remarked, “Enhancing the technical workforce is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted and safe healthcare services for patients and newborns.”
IHRA Assessment Underway
As part of ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services, the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) has initiated a thorough assessment of PIMS facilities and services. The health minister received updates on the visit of IHRA technical experts, who are evaluating the hospital’s operations against established standards.
The IHRA’s assessment involves a comprehensive review of various departments, including clinical, surgical, medical, radiology, and administrative sectors. The health ministry stated that the IHRA team will compile recommendations intended to enhance PIMS’s performance, elevate service standards, and modernize the hospital’s facilities.
