Global Health Emergency

July 12, Pakistan – A woman passed away during an operation at a hospital in Sahiwal on Wednesday. According to reports, the surgery was considered standard and was performed by a physician with assistance from seven medical personnel; however, authorities claim none of them had proper qualifications for the task. The facility has since been closed down, and formal complaints have been filed. Nevertheless, for the bereaved relatives, nothing alters the reality that a avoidable loss has turned into yet another case within a system where responsibility is seldom achieved.

According to the Punjab Healthcare Commission’s internal data, the extent of this issue has become evident. Over 23,000 health centers across the province were categorized as unauthorized or unlawful within the past five years. Despite this classification, numerous ones still function. In fact, even during 2023, more than 7,000 identified problematic clinics continued to be operational. The distinction between proper medical services and misconduct, along with the difference between an officially recognized practitioner and someone who claims authority without authorization, remains unclear for all to see.

Last year, in the same city, 11 infants lost their lives due to a fire at the publicly managed District Headquarters Hospital. The pediatric section did not have operational fire extinguishing equipment. The passing away of 20 children—primarily newborns—at DHQ Pakpattan had previously sparked significant concerns regarding fundamental capabilities. In Rawalpindi, a young patient succumbed to excessive blood loss this year when an inexperienced dental professional tried extracting a tooth at a street-side clinic. Across numerous towns, individuals entering private healthcare facilities with slight injuries frequently depart in coffins; victims of neglect that has transitioned from personal oversight into systemic failure.

The government led by Maryam Nawaz Sharif has recognized the extent of the issue. Over the past few weeks, her administration has introduced several initiatives: programs for training nurses and midwives, hiring paramedics, and conducting a digital assessment of hospital facilities. However, without strong implementation, even the most comprehensive strategies may end up as mere formalities. In remote areas of Punjab, health centers that were supposed to close often resume operations. Fake licenses remain common, and grievances frequently get stuck within administrative procedures.

In Pakistan, medical malpractice seldom leads to convictions. Penalties are usually low because legal proceedings drag on for many years. For those who have lost family members, seeking justice frequently proves futile.

The woman from Sahiwal was more than just a number. She looked for help but never returned home. Therefore, her tale should not conclude with an official statement.

If this administration is genuine, it should begin by taking actions that others haven't: closing dangerous facilities and ensuring they remain shut. *