ISLAMABAD: The newly appointed executive director of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences has pledged major steps. Dr Muhammad Salman said efforts would focus on preventing similar incidents in the future.
He made the remarks while speaking to the media after assuming charge on Sunday. His appointment follows a deadly fire at the hospital’s gynaecology ward.
The August 26 incident claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies. According to Pims officials, 15 infants were present in the nursery.
Only one newborn was rescued from the nursery following the incident. The tragedy prompted an investigation and action against several hospital officials.
New Pims Executive Director Takes Charge
Dr Salman said the administration would address identified problems based on the inquiry committee’s findings. He pledged measures aimed at improving patient safety across the hospital.
“We are making efforts; we will have to provide better and faster services,” he said. He also promised improvements in healthcare facilities for patients visiting Pims.
Dr Salman is also the chief executive officer of the National Institute of Health. He has now been placed at Pims on a three-year deputation.
His appointment came after the government suspended several officials over the fatal incident. The move followed an interim report presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Eight Officials Suspended After Fire
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting on Saturday. The meeting reviewed the circumstances surrounding the deadly hospital fire.
The inquiry committee presented its interim findings during the meeting. The committee identified eight people for immediate action.
The prime minister ordered their immediate suspension. He also directed authorities to begin proceedings against those identified in the report.
Pims fire: Health secretary’s removal raises questions over government action
Among those suspended was former Pims Executive Director Professor Dr Imran Sikandar. Federal Health Secretary Aslam Ghori had also previously been suspended.
The government’s actions followed growing concerns about safety standards at the hospital. Further measures are expected after the inquiry committee completes its investigation.
Patient Safety to Remain Key Priority
Dr Salman said patient safety would be central to the hospital administration’s approach. He said recent incidents required a comprehensive strategy to prevent repetition.
Referring to two recent incidents at Pims, he said preventive measures would be developed. The administration will reportedly examine existing systems and address identified weaknesses.
Such measures could become particularly important given the hospital’s large patient population. Pims receives patients from Islamabad and other parts of the country.
Dr Salman acknowledged the hospital faces a “very heavy patient” load. He said authorities would work to improve facilities for the large number of visitors.
Administration to Seek Better Patient Facilities
The new executive director also highlighted the need for better facilities. He said the hospital administration would approach the relevant ministry for support.
The objective would be to improve services available to patients and their families. Dr Salman said faster healthcare services would also remain an important goal.
Pims is one of Pakistan’s major public-sector healthcare institutions. Its large patient load places significant demands on its medical and administrative systems.
The new administration now faces the task of improving safety and service delivery. It must also address issues highlighted by the inquiry into the recent tragedy.
Dr Salman’s initial commitments indicate a focus on patient safety and institutional improvements. Further action is expected once the inquiry process progresses.
