Data Darbar hospital opens daycare centre to support working mothers

Secretary and Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta inaugurated the facility, describing it as an important step towards addressing the practical

Lahore: Data Darbar Hospital has established a daycare centre to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the children of hospital employees, particularly working mothers, as part of efforts to improve staff welfare and create a more supportive workplace.

Secretary and Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta inaugurated the facility, describing it as an important step towards addressing the practical challenges faced by employees who have young children.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Bhutta said employee welfare was an essential part of building a humane and people-focused institution. He said the new facility would allow working mothers to leave their children in a secure and caring environment while carrying out their professional responsibilities with greater peace of mind.

He appreciated the Women Development Department, particularly Secretary Saman Rai and her team, for their cooperation in establishing the daycare centre. He termed the initiative a positive example of coordination between government departments for employee welfare.

Dr Bhutta said Data Darbar Hospital was working to improve not only healthcare services for the public but also the working environment for doctors, paramedical personnel and other staff. He linked the initiative to the Punjab government’s broader vision of improving public institutions through better facilities, stronger services and a more supportive environment.

He said the hospital, operating under the Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department, provides free or heavily subsidised healthcare to low-income and deserving citizens. The facility has recently reactivated its General Medical Ward and established a modern Gynaecology Ward, while its outpatient and emergency departments serve more than 100 patients daily.

The hospital also provides basic diagnostic services, including blood tests, through its laboratory, while further work is underway to upgrade medical equipment and infrastructure so that underprivileged patients can access quality treatment without turning to costly private facilities.

Medical Superintendent Dr Javed Malik said several initiatives were being implemented under Dr Bhutta’s supervision to improve patient care, administrative efficiency, hospital facilities and employee welfare. He described the daycare centre as another practical step towards strengthening the institution and supporting its workforce.

He said an institution becomes stronger when its employees are provided with dignity, convenience and a supportive working environment, adding that the new facility would help staff perform their duties with greater confidence and dedication.