ISLAMABAD, 15 September, 2026 (Nosheen): The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services on Monday called for strict action against those found responsible for the tragic deaths of children at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), directing authorities to take effective measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The committee, chaired by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti, was briefed on the inquiry report into the PIMS tragedy and the measures taken by concerned authorities following the incident. Members stressed that those held responsible should face action in accordance with the law and that accountability should not remain limited to departmental proceedings. The committee directed authorities to ensure full implementation of the inquiry recommendations and address institutional shortcomings identified in the report on a priority basis. It also called for strengthening emergency response mechanisms at PIMS, ensuring adequate availability of doctors, nurses, medicines and essential equipment, and establishing clear protocols for the immediate treatment and referral of critically ill children.
The committee emphasised the need for effective monitoring and accountability mechanisms in hospital administrations, particularly in emergency and paediatric departments, to prevent delays, negligence and lack of coordination from putting patients’ lives at risk. The committee also reviewed the implementation status of recommendations made during its August 20, 2026 meeting regarding the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC). It further received a briefing on grievances of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Biochemistry degree holders regarding their exclusion or non-recognition under the Allied Health Professional Council Act, 2022. Officials briefed the committee on the legal and regulatory framework concerning their registration, professional recognition and eligibility to practise, as well as measures being considered to address their concerns. The committee directed the relevant authorities to examine the matter in accordance with the law and ensure that the legitimate concerns of degree holders were appropriately addressed.