PIMS gets daily oversight as health secretary steps in

Federal Health Secretary Muhammad Mahmood has pledged to personally monitor affairs at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

Speaking to the media during a visit to the hospital, Mahmood said resolving PIMS’ administrative problems was his top priority.

He said he would remain available at the hospital to address issues and improve facilities for patients and their families.

Mahmood said he would first complete his official responsibilities at the Ministry of Health. After that, he would visit PIMS and sit there on a daily basis.

He said his regular presence at the hospital would help him understand the problems faced by patients, doctors, nurses and other staff.

The health secretary also said he wanted to ensure that issues were addressed without unnecessary delays. He stressed that providing better facilities to the public would remain a key focus of his work.

His remarks came amid heightened scrutiny of PIMS following the recent fire tragedy in which 14 newborn babies died. The incident has raised serious questions about hospital management, emergency response and safety arrangements.

The government has launched an investigation into the tragedy. The inquiry committee is examining the circumstances surrounding the fire and the response of the hospital administration and relevant departments.

Against this backdrop, Mahmood’s decision to maintain a daily presence at PIMS is being viewed as an effort to closely monitor the hospital’s administration and improve its functioning.

He said the problems facing PIMS would be addressed through direct engagement and regular oversight.