IHRA chairman Dr Riyaz Shahbaz resigns from post

The resignation of Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) Chairman Dr Riyaz Shahbaz Janjua has come to light.

ISLAMABAD: The resignation of Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) Chairman Dr Riyaz Shahbaz Janjua has come to light.

According to a copy of his resignation letter, Dr Janjua’s resignation will take effect from the date it is formally approved.

In his resignation, Dr Janjua said certain developments and circumstances had affected the autonomy of the authority. He said that under the prevailing circumstances, it was no longer possible for him to perform his responsibilities independently and effectively.

Dr Janjua was appointed as a member of the IHRA board in October 2024. During the board’s first meeting, he was unanimously elected as its chairman.

In his resignation letter, he highlighted the authority’s work despite having limited human resources. He said the IHRA had taken several steps to strengthen the healthcare regulatory framework in Islamabad.

According to the letter, the authority registered around 2,500 healthcare establishments across Islamabad. It also conducted more than 8,000 regulatory and inspection visits to healthcare facilities.

Dr Janjua further stated that around 50 establishments allegedly involved in illegal and fake medical practices were sealed by the authority.

He stressed that an independent regulatory body was essential for effective healthcare regulation and the protection of patients.

The outgoing chairman also expressed his gratitude for being given the opportunity to contribute to healthcare regulation and patient safety.

His resignation comes amid concerns over the autonomy and functioning of the healthcare regulatory authority. The resignation letter highlighted the importance of maintaining an independent regulatory mechanism to ensure proper oversight of healthcare facilities and protect patients’ rights.

The IHRA is responsible for regulating healthcare establishments in Islamabad. Its functions include registration, inspection, monitoring and enforcement of healthcare standards.