PMA opposes Punjab plan to outsource Operation Theatres

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has strongly condemned the Punjab government's decision to outsource the operation theatres of the province's teaching hospitals, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Saturday.

In a statement, the PMA has described the move as a conspiracy against the health system and an act of enmity towards the ailing community.

PMA Lahore President Prof Dr. Ashraf Nizami and General Secretary Prof Dr. Shahid Shaukat Malik expressed their resentment to the government's decision.

They emphasized that it is the government's fundamental responsibility to provide its citizens with high-quality, efficient, and affordable healthcare services.

However, they accused the government of shirking this constitutional duty by handing over public health services to commercial entities, which they believe will leave the public at the mercy of profiteers.

The PMA leaders asserted that this decision, deemed unconstitutional, illegal, and unethical, will deprive people of accessible and quality medical care and will negatively impact the existing healthcare system.

They stressed that the entire medical community, along with all related health organizations and the general public, rejects this decision outright.

Dr. Nizami and Dr. Malik highlighted the detrimental effects that such a policy would have on public health.

They warned that the privatization of operation theatres would lead to increased costs for medical treatments, making it unaffordable for the public who are already leading their lives below the poverty line.

“This contradicts the government's duty to ensure the welfare of its population by providing essential services.”

 The PMA officials demanded an immediate reversal of this decision.

They underscored that the implementation of such a policy would exacerbate the already strained healthcare system, leading to a decline in the quality of medical services.

The association called upon the government to recognize the widespread disapproval and reconsider its stance in favor of maintaining public health as a priority.

Furthermore, the PMA urged the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with healthcare professionals and stakeholders to find more sustainable solutions to improve the healthcare system.