CM opens upgraded blocks of Services Hospital

LAHORE:Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi inaugurated the upgraded surgical, medical, and administrative blocks of Services Hospital, where he inspected the modernised wards and expressed satisfaction over the provision of contemporary medical equipment and beds. He also visited nursing counters and doctors' rooms, directing the swift operationalisation of all operation theatres and emphasising the importance of regular cleanliness management in the upgraded blocks.

The chief minister also inaugurated a digital data storage system for patient records, a significant step towards modernising healthcare services. He commended the high quality of the hospital's upgradation.

Secretary Communication and Works provided a detailed overview of the upgradation work, while secretary health highlighted the enhanced treatment facilities in the upgraded blocks.

Mohsin Naqvi urged the completion of the new lab and diagnostic centre at Services Hospital, giving specific instructions to the Principal of SIMS (Services Institute of Medical Sciences) in this regard.

Speaking to the media after the inauguration, Mohsin Naqvi recalled his visit to Services Hospital six months ago, stating his shock at the dire state of the facility at that time, remarking that he wouldn't even send an enemy there for treatment. He praised the rapid transformation of Services Hospital into a state-of-the-art facility within four and a half months.

The ongoing upgradation covers an area of 311,000 square feet, including the addition of 24 new, state-of-the-art operation theatres, in the 1,600-bed hospital.

Mohsin Naqvi applauded the hard work of Provincial Minister Mansoor Qadir, Secretary Communication and Works, and the Health Department. He specifically mentioned Mansoor Qadir's dedication, visiting Services Hospital twice daily. He also acknowledged the significant work being done by the Communication and Works Department on numerous projects, highlighting the exemplary role of the Secretary Communication and Works.

Responding to a question regarding recent allegations of Commissioner Rawalpindi, the chief minister refrained from commenting until the completion of the report. He noted the increased cost of medicines in hospitals but emphasised that the budget remains unchanged, adding that the incoming government could revise the budget if necessary.

The Punjab government currently spends Rs50 billion on medicines. He also mentioned the upcoming completion of Lahore Zoo on February 22.

Expressing confidence in the future development of the province and country, he emphasised his commitment to defending his officers during his tenure as chief minister. He highlighted efforts to increase the number of nurses and paramedic staff, including language training for nurses. He concluded with optimism, envisioning a future of exponential development for his province and country.

Provincial Ministers Amir Mir, Mansoor Qadir, secretaries health, information, CCPO, deputy commissioner, DG PHA, Principal SIMS, MS Services Hospital, Special Secretary Health Department, and other relevant officials were also present on the occasion.

CM seeks report from RPO

The chief minister sought a report from RPO Sahiwal about rape-cum-murder of a child in Okara and directed that strict action be taken against the arrested culprit. ‘The perpetrator of this heinous crime deserves no leniency,’ he declared emphatically. The CM also extended sympathies to the grieving heirs and assured them of the provision of justice.