LAHORE: In a decisive move, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has initiated swift measures to address the alarming spread of HIV among dialysis patients at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a "tragic failure" in healthcare protocols, and demanded a detailed report.
During a high-level meeting to review ongoing health projects and programs, Maryam Nawaz approved the Chief Minister Dialysis Program Card, a historic initiative aimed at providing enhanced financial support to dialysis patients across Punjab. This program increases the funding ceiling for dialysis treatments up to one million rupees per patient, ensuring access to quality healthcare for those in need.
Strengthening healthcare for dialysis patients
The Chief Minister directed immediate implementation of reforms to prevent further lapses in patient safety, including:
→ Ensuring free medicines and diagnostic tests for dialysis patients.
→ Mandating the Punjab Healthcare Commission to strictly enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in dialysis centers.
→ Establishing new dialysis units to address the rising demand for treatment across Punjab.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of uninterrupted dialysis services, condemning the suspension of treatments due to insufficient funds. “Patients cannot be left to suffer because of administrative shortcomings. This program will ensure consistent care,” she stated.
Broader health reforms announced
The meeting also addressed broader health sector improvements:
→ The Punjab Institute of Cardiology’s second branch (PIC-2) will be transformed into a state-of-the-art hospital.
→ Leadership appointments will be expedited for Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital.
→ Cutting-edge technology and advanced medicines for cardiac care will be introduced.
→ Specialist doctors will receive enhanced training, with master trainers being appointed to improve healthcare outcomes.
HIV outbreak triggers accountability
The HIV outbreak linked to Nishtar Hospital's dialysis unit has raised significant public alarm. The Chief Minister instructed the Punjab Healthcare Commission to intensify monitoring and ensure strict compliance with infection control protocols at dialysis centers across the province. Emphasizing the need for immediate accountability and reform, she said:
"This incident is a wake-up call for healthcare management in Punjab. We must protect patients from preventable infections and restore their trust in public hospitals."
A step towards patient-centric healthcare
The new initiatives under the CM Dialysis Program Card aim to provide a lifeline for thousands of patients battling kidney disease, while also underscoring the government’s commitment to patient safety and healthcare excellence.