VIP hurdles

It has become a common feature in the country, especially in Peshawar, that whenever a natural calamity or a bomb blast occurs, a fleet of ministers and even other citizens swarm hospitals. Accident and emergency departments, which can hold only a limited number of patients, become packed with unnecessary people. People do not even hesitate to enter the operation theatres. Politicians also visit hospitals to score political points at a time when health workers are busy attending to emergencies. The administrative officials of hospitals, who are supposed to supervise the work of the paramedical staff, end up providing protocol to VIPs.
Moreover, the media’s DSNG vans parked in front of accident and emergency departments also greatly hamper rescue activities. Victims of bomb blasts and natural calamities need immediate medical aid. VIPs and media persons should follow medical ethics and avoid visiting hospitals during emergencies. They can visit hospitals once the emergency situation subsides and patients get the required treatment.
Engr M Sayyad Alam Khan
Peshawar