Pakpattan Hospital Tragedy: CM Maryam Orders Arrests
The investigation into the Pakpattan hospital tragedy is ongoing, with a focus on determining the causes of the deaths and identifying measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Chief Minister's swift action and commitment to accountability have been welcomed by many, who hope that it will lead to meaningful reforms and improvements in the healthcare system.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered the arrest of two top officials and suspended three doctors at Pakpattan's District Headquarters Hospital after 20 infants died between June 16 and June 22, sparking a thorough investigation into the incident.
An internal inquiry committee found that 15 of the 20 deceased were neonates and newborn babies, highlighting the need for improved emergency response and medical care at the hospital. CM Maryam formed a three-member committee to investigate the incident, including oxygen failure, systemic shortcomings, and the hospital's emergency response, to determine the cause of the deaths and prevent such tragedies in the future.
The Chief Minister's surprise visit to the hospital revealed a lack of basic medicines in the emergency ward, prompting her to express anger and concern over the unavailability of essential medical supplies. She also ordered the sealing of four unauthorized private hospitals and a comprehensive audit of medical equipment in the DHQ hospital to ensure that all healthcare facilities in the region meet the required standards.
Three laboratory technicians were arrested for referring patients to their privately run labs outside the hospital premises, and three private clinics have been sealed as part of the investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that 15 of the deceased children were born in private hospitals and brought to the DHQ in critical condition, while five deaths were linked to mishandled deliveries by untrained midwives.
CM Maryam has vowed to hold all those responsible fully accountable and emphasized that negligence in healthcare will not be tolerated. The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage, with many calling for improved healthcare services and greater accountability in the medical sector.