LAHORE – In a major push to transform Punjab’s public healthcare system, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has issued a series of directives aimed at improving emergency response, hospital management, and patient care across the province.
Immediate Emergency Upgrades
Chairing a high-level meeting on Monday, the CM ordered the immediate rollout of the Red & Blue Code Emergency System in all hospitals within two days, alongside mandatory training for medical staff. She also announced the formation of a CM Health Vigilance Squad to conduct surprise inspections and ensure compliance with reforms.
Critical Equipment & Specialist Access
To address gaps in emergency care, the CM mandated:
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Ventilators for adults & children in all teaching/district hospitals.
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Cath labs in phased development, with heart specialists visiting district hospitals twice weekly until completion.
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CT/MRI machines to be fully operational, monitored via CCTV surveillance.
Accountability & Transparency Measures
Strict protocols were outlined, including:
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Audits of equipment, deaths, labs, and nursing care.
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Ban on mobile phones for nurses/paramedics during duty; pager systems introduced instead.
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24/7 complaints cell with an impartial officer and CCTV coordination.
Free Medicines & Trauma Centers
The CM emphasized free, uninterrupted medicine supply with daily stock displays. Trauma centers near emergency wards and life-saving drug availability were also prioritized.
“The people must see visible improvements in three months,” she declared, vowing to elevate government hospitals above private healthcare standards.