ISLAMABAD: In the wake of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 14 infants in a gynecology ward, the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has opted to temporarily redirect severe gynecological cases to other medical facilities in Rawalpindi, including the Polyclinic, it was revealed on Thursday.
The fire incident, attributed to a reported explosion in the air conditioning system, has sparked outrage and mourning, with Health Minister Mustafa Kamal confirming the cause. In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took swift action to dismiss the federal health secretary and initiated an inquiry into the matter.
A senior gynecologist, who requested anonymity, indicated that PIMS typically adheres to an open-door policy for all patients.
“Despite this, with the nursery completely destroyed and the need for extensive renovations, we are compelled to refer critically ill patients to alternative hospitals,” she explained.
The gynecologist further elaborated that even on Thursday, PIMS had managed several serious deliveries, yet there was concern about overburdening other facilities if all cases were referred out.
In a separate development, newly appointed Health Secretary Capt (retd) Muhammad Mehmood shared his plans to introduce advanced technologies to resolve ongoing healthcare challenges during a press briefing.
“Our infrastructure must meet global standards, and governance needs enhancement. Though I am new to the health sector, my expertise lies in administration, and I am committed to improving it,” he stated.
Mehmood indicated that he intends to operate the health ministry directly from PIMS to better grasp the issues faced by the institution. When questioned about the logistics of this arrangement, he affirmed the feasibility of modern technology, saying, “I can attend crucial meetings away from PIMS but will return promptly.”
The fire originated on the third floor of the Mother and Child Hospital, and while preliminary assessments suggested an air conditioner malfunction as the ignition source, the definitive cause remains under investigation.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing experiences waiting for emergency assistance, attempting to break through windows to access the neonatal care unit, and encountering locked doors. In contrast, officials have contested these claims.
In light of the incident, the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) has issued urgent instructions mandating the implementation of fire safety protocols in both public and private hospitals throughout Punjab. The PHC has called on health departments, the Punjab Emergency Services, and hospital administrations to establish robust emergency preparedness measures for both fire-related and non-fire emergencies.
PIMS Redirects Critical Gynecological Cases to Other Hospitals Post-Tragedy
