In a move to ensure accountability in the public health sector, a surprise inspection was carried out at the Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital in Hasan Abdal. The visit was part of the ongoing chief minister’s vigilance and accountability initiative, aimed at directly monitoring the quality of healthcare services provided to citizens.
Unannounced Scrutiny of Hospital Operations
Led by the Chief Minister’s Special Assistant, Shoaib Mirza, the inspection team arrived without prior notice. The team's primary objective was to conduct a thorough, on-ground assessment of the hospital's functioning. Mr. Mirza and his team personally toured various departments, engaging directly with patients and their attendants to gather firsthand feedback about the facilities and treatment.
Comprehensive Check of Medical Services and Equipment
The inspection was meticulous and covered multiple critical areas. The team began by reviewing the medicine warehouse located in the hospital basement, a key point for drug supply management. They sought opinions from patients regarding the availability of prescribed medicines. The inspectors expressed satisfaction with the stock of essential medicines in the Outpatient Department (OPD), pharmacy, and emergency ward.
Furthermore, the operational status of vital diagnostic machinery was verified. The team examined the functioning of the cardiac unit and checked whether the X-ray, ultrasound, and ECG machines were in working order. The presence of senior medical staff, including the Deputy Medical Superintendent (DMS), family physician, and gynaecologist, was also confirmed during the visit.
Focus on Patient Care and Ancillary Services
Beyond medical equipment, the team evaluated broader patient services. They noted the regular public announcement system that guides patients within the hospital premises. The availability of basic amenities like stretchers and wheelchairs was reviewed. The inspection also extended to police facilitation services available at the hospital, and the team interacted with laboratory technicians to understand workflow challenges.
A significant aspect of the visit was observing the conduct and attitude of doctors towards their patients. This human element is crucial for patient satisfaction and effective healthcare delivery. The surprise nature of the visit ensured that the assessment reflected the hospital's everyday reality, not a prepared facade.
Implications of the Vigilance Drive
This unannounced visit to THQ Hospital Hasan Abdal underscores the provincial government's commitment to improving public healthcare through direct oversight. Such surprise inspections are intended to identify gaps, commend good practices, and instil a sense of accountability among hospital administrations. The initiative sends a clear message that the delivery of quality medical services is a top priority, and lapses will not be tolerated. The positive feedback on medicine availability is a promising sign, but the continuous monitoring aims to ensure consistency across all facilities in Punjab.
