On 14 June, Dr. Fakhar-e-Alam, President of PIMA KPK, along with other healthcare professionals and representatives of doctors’ bodies, met with Provincial Health Minister Mr. Syed Qasim Ali Shah to discuss crucial healthcare matters.
During the meeting, Dr. Fakhar-e-Alam highlighted several key points:
Dr. Fakhar emphasized the need to involve doctors in health policy decision-making processes, particularly concerning initiatives like the Sehat Card program, advocating for expertise-driven decision-making over non-medical input.
He urged the government to nominate Board of Directors promptly and expedite the operationalization of three completed healthcare institutions: KICH Fountain (specializing in psychiatry) and a Liver Transplant Unit.
Dr. Fakhar proposed the creation of District Specialist posts at the district level, recognizing the expertise of inducted Medical Officers (MOs). He cited examples, such as a pediatric cardiologist serving as an MO in Mardan District Jail, as instances needing immediate rectification.
Improving the induction process for Trainee Medical Officers (TMOs) was another focal point, with calls to increase minimum slots to over 1000 and enhance training standards. He also highlighted the delayed stipend payments for January inductees as a critical issue needing resolution.
Dr. Fakhar advocated for ensuring a minimum salary of at least Rs. 1 lac for first-year trainees, aligning with standards set in Punjab.
Finally, discussions also encompassed addressing job-related issues within the Public Service Commission, emphasizing the need for streamlined processes and fairness in healthcare job placements.
