The National Medical Newspaper

Pakistan’s First Independent Medical Periodical from Karachi Vol. 50 No. 06 September 1-14, 2017 Published Fortnightly Reg. No. ID. MC-153 ISSN 1728-1520 Controlled Circulation

NICVD deemed Dangerously high DRAP ‘fails’ to Medical News Inside 02 05 07 greets its valued readers on world’s largest ... water arsenic ... seize supply of ... EIDUL AZHA INCREASED TAXATION AND PLACEMENT OF PICTURES DEMANDED DRAP initiates Plane load of deaths daily from post-marketing drug surveillance tobacco related diseases; Experts MN Report KARACHI - The DRAP chief further claimed that they had also started MN Report post-marketing surveillance of drugs Picture speaks 1000 words for the first time in the history of the KARACHI - Cigarette smoking country and this would help them in kills over 124,000 Pakistanis Denato, Del knowing the efficacy, safety and every year. This death toll is far Philip Barton: UK High Vecchio: BAT Commissioner to Pakistan Group Head adverse effects of drugs after they greater than total deaths reached patients and consumers. occurring as a result of suicidal bombings, traffic accidents and crime related killings in a given year. This was highlighted at a seminar organized at the 13th Health Asia conference held at Expo center Karachi. This alarming number means a plane load of daily deaths from tobacco related disease. Experts while talking at the British American Tobacco delegation meet with Government of Pakistan Health Asia Conference urged "This system would also help us in the government to treat the cigarettes in order to curb the by International Agency for rooting out the menace of spurious situation as alarming and growing tobacco epidemic in Research on Cancer last year, and substandard drugs from Pakistan increase taxation to discourage the country. He said that he said that 50% increase in and would also save precious lives." smoking. decrease in the taxation on inflation adjusted price could Dr Aslam further claimed that DRAP Prof Javaid Khan of Aga Khan cigarettes in the last budget was reduce smoking prevalence by had made the process of registration University and Chairperson a backward move for the 20%. Prof. Javaid Khan said of drugs transparent and now nobody NATC asked the government tobacco control in the country. that the taxation on cigarette at Continued on Page 11 to increase taxation on Quoting a research conducted Continued on Page 11

PMDC gives conditional Founder: Ayaz Mahmood Publisher: M Hassan Mahmood green light to fee hike Chief Executive: Syed Hashim Hasan /MedicalNewsPk MN Report Online Editor: Haseeb Uddin /MedicalNewsPk ISLAMABAD - The Pakistan Medical Assistant Editor: Dr Amna Nayyar and Dental council has agreed to allow private Honorary Advisor: medical and dental colleges to increase fee by Dr Sulman Akhtur Rs0.8 million with a 7 per cent annual hike. Manager Production & Coordination For this purpose, the colleges will however have M Irfan Ali to grant admissions on merit, improve facilities, not medicalnewspk.com Advertising Manager charge extra money in the name of donations and Tel: 021-35833172 SM Shakil (0300-2559344) fulfill corporate social responsibility vis-a-vis patient 021-35872289 Business Executives care. They will also produce an affidavit suggesting Khawaja Akhlaq Ahmed that they will follow the agreement. If these Haroon Rashid (0342-2393917) (Islamabad: 0300-9710774) conditions are acceptable to colleges, they will be examined in the next Council meeting for approval. Designing & Layout Sh M Sadiq Ali Continued on Page 14 Children’s lives at risk as some NICVD deemed world’s largest primary PCI center life-saving drugs disappear from market MN Report KARACHI - Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah MN Report said that the government is trying to release funds to KARACHI - Some life-saving medicines reconstruct the building of National Institute of have almost disappeared from the Cardiovascular Disease (NICVD) as the present building market, putting the lives of thousands of is 50 years old. children at risk. While presiding According to doctors, the drugs are used over a meeting for the treatment of various genetic of NICVD's disorders, the most common among governing body them is Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia department, federal health ministry and here at the CM (CAH), a family of inherited disorders the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan House, Murad affecting the adrenal glands. (DRAP), about this issue. But it remains said that there is Speaking to the media, Dr Jamal Raza, unresolved," Dr Raza said, adding that shortage of a senior paediatric endocrinologist and the specific drugs were part of the WHO space in NICVD as its building is quite old. "We are the director of National Institute of Child list of essential medicines. trying to spare funds for its reconstruction to create more Health (NICH), said that though Children born with CAH, Dr Raza said, space for making it further convenient for patients and availability of these drugs (hydrocortisone faced high mortality risk in the country doctors," he said. and fludrocortisone tablets) had always due to an acute shortage of relevant Shah was very glad when he knew that the patients from been a problem, they had almost drugs and lack of awareness about the Balochistan, Punjab and KPK also come here for their disappeared from the market this time. disease. treatment and return healthy. He added that NICVD has "We have repeatedly informed concerned He explained the CAH resulted in adrenal become a world class institute owing to the health government officials, including those glands' failure to produce certain department's efforts, the donors' generous financial representing the provincial health Continued on Page 11 contribution and administration's untiring work. The CM was informed that NICVD has performed 9,058 primary angioplasties during the last 30 months, making it the world's largest primary PCI Center. He was told by NICVD executive director Dr Nadeem Qamar that the primary angioplasty was started in May 2015. This is when a patient with acute myocardial infection is taken to Cath Lab, his arteries are opened with coronary angioplasty. He told the meeting that cardiac surgeries have jumped up to 200 per month and they expect to carry on the trend with targeting approximately 3,000 surgeries per year. The surgical ICU has been expanded from 20 beds to 34 beds, he added. Dr Nadeem said that all general patient and outpatient services are totally free of cost at NICVD. The free Continued on Page 11 PMA expressed concern regarding public safety of medical staff

MN Report KARACHI - Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) and other doctors' representative bodies have expressed deep concern on harassment of doctors fraternity in public and private sector hospitals of Sindh province and demanded the authorities concerned to make Sindh Healthcare Commission operational throughout the province at earliest basis. These reservations were expressed by President, PMA, Karachi Dr Shoukat Malik during a joint press conference held at PMA House Karachi. Secretary General, PMA Centre, Dr Qaisar Sajjad, General Secretary Private Hospital & Clinic Association Dr Sami Ahmed and General Secretary Pakistan Paediatric Association (PPA) Sindh, Dr Khalid Shafi were also present on this occasion. Dr Shoukat Malik said violence and harassment of doctors once again are on the rise in Karachi due to poor security arrangements in public and private sector health facilities. He informed that in relation to such incidents, a child with some serious ailment was brought into a private hospital at Dhorajee. The doctor on duty advised admission and the child was admitted in the ICU of the hospital and the family deposited an amount of Rs.5000/-. After two days the accounts department asked for more money, instead of paying the money few Continued on Page 11

02 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 JPMC facing 50% Dr Ruth Pfau laid to drug shortage MN Report rest in Karachi KARACHI - The Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center (JPMC), is facing MN Report German-Pakistani national Dr 1960s and medicine shortages since the last KARACHI - Founder of Marie Ruth breathed her last after ended up several weeks, causing Adelaide Leprosy Centre prolonged illness on August 10, staying, adopting Pakistan as her inconvenience for visiting and (MALC), Dr Ruth Pfau, who 2017 at a private hospital in new home as she dedicated admitted patients. dedicated a lifetime to fighting Karachi. She was 87. her life to taking care of leprosy leprosy in Pakistan, was laid to Earlier, Prime Minister Shahid patients. It was due to her endless rest at Karachi's Gora Qabristan Khaqan Abbasi had announced struggle that Pakistan defeated with full state honours. a state funeral for Dr Ruth, the disease and became leprosy- President of Pakistan Mamnoon stating: "The entire nation is free in 1996. Husssain, Chief of Army Staff indebted to Ruth Pfau for her She was granted Pakistani (COAS) General Qamar Javed selfless and unmatched services citizenship in 1988 and received Bajwa, Air Chief Marshal Sohail for the eradication of leprosy. We numerous accolades for her An official of Pharmacy Department Aman, IG Sindh, Corps are proud of her exemplary services, including the country's informed media that the hospital has Commander Karachi, DG services and she will remain in top civilian awards Hilal-i-Imtiaz been facing 50 per cent shortage of Rangers and Governor Sindh our hearts as a shining symbol and Hilal-i-Pakistan. medicines from last few weeks due Muhammad Zubair. The Chief in times ahead." Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad to delay in issuance of tender. He Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali She was only the second person Ali Shah, Consul-General of the said visiting and out-patients have Shah along with his cabinet was to be accorded a state funeral in German Consulate and Dr Adeeb been compelled to purchase also present at the burial. 29 years, with the last one offered Rizvi, head of the Sindh Institute medicines from private medical stores Dr Ruth's state funeral was for late philanthropist Abdul Sattar of Urology and Transplantation, over drug shortage in healthcare. performed with national honours Edhi in 2016. were among the dignitaries who Continued on Page 11 at St Patrick's Cathedral. Dr Ruth visited Pakistan in the Continued on Page 10

111 health facilities given to Integrated Health Services

MN Report KARACHI - Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said that the provincial government was delivering best health services with Public Private Partnership (PPP); therefore, the PPP mode must be strengthened by removing its teething problems. This he said while presiding over a meeting on health services launched under PPP mode in the province. The meeting was attended by Health Minister Dr Siknadar Mendhro, Principal Secretary to CM Sohail Rajput, Secretary Health Fazal Pechuho, Secretary Finance Hassan Naqvi and others. Minister Health Dr Sikandar Mendhro said that the District Headquarter Hospital (DHQ) Badin, which had been given to Indus Hospital management, was operating best. Secretary Health Dr Fazal Pechuho said that 111 health facilities had been given to Integrated Health Services (IHS), 13 in Thatta and Sujawal to Medical Emergency Resilience Foundation (MERF) and 39 in Karachi to HANDS. The chief minister said that the provincial government was successfully providing health services with private partnership. Therefore, a further better system might be evolved so that the partnership could further become beneficial to the people of Sindh. The chief minister also directed the health and finance departments to resolve all the outstanding issues with private partners particularly the budget. On the chief minister's instruction, the finance department released Rs354 million to DHQ Badin for construction of waiting areas, washrooms and such other facilities for the visitors and the patients also. The Sindh government was operating people's ambulance service in partnership with Aman Foundation in Sujawal and Thatta. The Chief Minister has approved ambulance service for Badin and Tando Mohammad Khan districts. The chief minister directed Minister Health to visit the 111 health facilities being operated by HIS and give him their progress report. It was also decided that the health department would facilitate the private partners in expansion of their services.

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 03 Governor Sindh opens Int’l Sindh CM names CHK as Health & Pharma Asia exhibition Dr Ruth Pfau Hospital MN Report MN Report Provincial Ministries of Exhibition. He said foreign KARACHI - Governor Health, Pakistan delegates from 25 KARACHI - Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah Sindh Muhammad Zuabair Pharmaceutical countries are participating in recognition of legendary Dr Ruth Pfau has announced said the China-Pakistan Manufacturers Association in the three day to name Civil Hospital Karachi after her name. Economic Corridor (PPMA), Dow University conference. He also The chief minister, shortly after attending the state (CPEC) has puts positive of Health Sciences applauded the organizers funeral of Dr Ruth Pfau at Christian Cemetery, directed effects on health sector of (DUHS) and others. for organizing such an Chief Secretary Rizwan Memon to issue a notification Pakistan as well as Sindh Governor said restoration innovative event in the city. to name Civil Hospital as Dr Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital province, and vowed that of peace in Karachi is the 13th Health & Pharma Karachi. "She had dedicated her entire life to fighting government ready to top-most priority of the Asia is the biggest health against Leprosy in the country, particularly in Sindh, organize more such government, but sector event; it will bring and founded a dedicated hospital in the city," he said international conferences unfortunately some together more than 50,000 and added "it becomes our responsibility to name one in the country in future. elements were trying to healthcare industry of the largest hospitals, Civil Hospital Karachi in her He shared these views destabilise the peaceful professionals with more name," he said. during the inauguration of atmosphere of the city. He than 500 of the world's He directed the chief secretary to issue a notification the 13th Health Asia & said positive image of the leading healthcare for the purpose and directed health department to replace Pharma Asia 2017 metropolis can be built in suppliers, manufacturers the name board of the hospital and change the letter International Exhibition & the world by organising and service providers, all heads and seals etc. accordingly. Earlier, the chief Conference at Expo international exhibitions under one roof, to present minister attended final funeral rites of Dr Ruth Pfau at Centre Karachi. The three- and conferences in the city. the latest industry St. Patrick's Cathedral and then also attended her state day event was organized He thanked foreign innovation, network and funeral at Christian Cemetery and laid a wreath on her by E-Commerce Gateway delegates for their business. grave. Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd with participation in the Health Over 450 foreign collaboration of Federal & and Pharma Asia Continued on Page 10 CHK hosts “train the trainers” bio-safety workshop MN Report KARACHI - The Civil Hospital Karachi (CHK) in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO) arranged a training workshop on the topic "Bio-Safety in Public Health Laboratories in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: Train the Trainers Course". Vice-Chancellor, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Prof Dr M Saeed Quraishy was the Chief Guest of the occasion. The inauguration ceremony of the workshop was held was at OT Complex, Auditorium, Civil Hospital, Karachi at 9-00 am. Vice-Chancellor, The Dadabhoy Institute of Higher Education (DIHE) Dr Shahana Urooj Kazmi delivered inaugural lecture on 'Strengthening of biosafety/bio security and bio-risk management in Pakistan'. Around 30 participants from 15 different institutions both public and private sector hospitals and laboratories are being trained in this workshop. The workshop is facilitated by Dr Ghulam Fatima Chief Pathologist CHK and Samiya Kainat Microbiologist CHK Central Lab. This is the first WHO collaborative effort being organised by a public sector hospital in Karachi. Woman gives birth to four at CHK

MN Report KARACHI - A 30-year-old woman gave birth to four babies in Civil Hospital Karachi (CHK) and was promptly referred to a private hospital due to shortage of incubators. According to the hospital sources, wife of a man named Rizwan, gave birth to four babies in Gynecology Department of the hospital recently, and later on the administration referred the woman to a private hospital due to shortage incubator facility in the department. Family sources said one baby out of four died while the health condition of the three others was stated to be critical. Rizwan, who is a labourer by profession, was unable to afford the expenses of a private hospital, and requested the authorities concerned to financially help the family. Continued on Page 10

04 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 Dangerously high water arsenic Massive anti-measles levels threaten millions of lives campaign vaccinates millions MN Report MN Report KARACHI - A nine-day anti-measles KARACHI - Levels of arsenic in the groundwater campaign was commenced in 165 of eastern Pakistan are "alarmingly high" and pose Union Councils (UCs) Karachi where a significant health hazard to tens of millions of approximately 1.5 million children people who drink the water. from the The study in the journal "Science Advances" is the ages of nine first to create a comprehensive map of arsenic in months till the groundwater across Pakistan, and follows earlier, five years smaller studies that showed high arsenic levels in will be some places. vaccinated Groundwater samples were taken from nearly 1,200 against sites throughout the country, and researchers used conditions cannot be predicted sufficiently accurately measles during the drive. a model to project the likelihood of increased arsenic by modelling. If the suspected link to irrigation The Expanded Prrogramme on concentrations for all of Pakistan. practices is confirmed, new techniques would need Immunization (EPI) and Health Areas in eastern Punjab - which includes Lahore - to replace current practices. Department Sindh decided to launch and around Hyderabad were especially likely to Pakistan is aware of the growing problem, with an anti-measles drive in the city after have groundwater that exposes large numbers of arsenic levels rising in some areas as people reporting measles cases from people to arsenic contamination. increasingly and indiscriminately draw from the different areas of metropolis. Around Many parts of the densely populated plains along country's underground aquifers, said Lubna Bukhari, 2500 teams would be deployed in the Indus River and its tributaries showed arsenic who heads the government's Council for Research the city where 1.5million children concentrations in groundwater were higher than the in Water Resources. would be vaccinated during the World Health Organisation guideline of 10 "It's a real concern," she said. "Because of lack of campaign. micrograms per litre, said the report. rules and regulations, people have exploited the The teams will be supported by 5,000 "Very high concentrations, above 200 groundwater brutally, and it is driving up arsenic social mobilisers whose primary job micrograms/litre, are found mainly in the south," it levels." would be to raise awareness in warned. The authors of the study developed a map communities so that parents can Overall, 50 to 60 million people use groundwater highlighting areas of likely contamination based on bring their children to vaccination which very likely contains more than 50 micrograms water quality data from nearly 1,200 groundwater centres in order to get them per litre, or five times higher than WHO guidelines. pumps tested from 2013 to 2015, and accounting vaccinated. "This is an alarmingly high number, which for geological factors including surface slope and Moreover, 70 town-level supervisors, demonstrates the urgent need to test all drinking soil contents. They determined some 88 million 350 first-level supervisors and 70 water wells in the Indus Plain," said lead author people were living in high-risk areas. second-level supervisors will be Joel Podgorski, a geophysicist at the Swiss Federal Given that about 60-70 percent of the population monitoring the teams during the Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag). relies on groundwater, they calculated that roughly campaign. Researchers are not sure why the arsenic on 50 million - maybe even 60 million - were potentially "This is a perfect opportunity for Pakistan is so high, but one hypothesis is that heavy affected. That's equal to at least a third of the 150 parents to protect their children from irrigation could be boosting the arsenic level in million already estimated by the World Health measles, which is a disease that can groundwater. Organisation to be drinking, cooking and farming result in blindness and even death," Rice, wheat, cotton and sugarcane are heavily with arsenic-laced water worldwide. said EPI Project Director Dr Agha farmed in the area. South Asian countries concerned with pathogen- Ashfaq. He appealed to the parents Podgorski said more water from wells in high-risk infused surface water have been pumping enormous to bring their children to the areas must be tested, because concentrations of volumes of groundwater, causing the water tables vaccination centres during the arsenic can vary widely in small areas. to drop drastically and tapping into new water pockets campaign where the skilled workers Also, more testing is needed because local aquifer Continued on Page 10 will administer the measles vaccine to the children. Dr Ashfaq added that measles is a preventable disease and the Sindh Sindh Govt. launches awareness drive against government will provide its vaccine free of charge at its vaccination centres across the city during the Congo Fever this Eid campaign. The campaign also received support from the Pakistan Paediatric MN Report also placed in different sites of Association whose doctors were also KARACHI - Sindh Health the city to create awareness available in the field. Department has launched a among general public. comprehensive awareness drive He explained that the objective across the Karachi to prevent of this awareness drive to measures are necessary for KMDC declared KU’s and control of Crimean-Congo sensitise human and animal people who deal animals. He Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), for healthcare authorities to further said numerous wild and constituent college upcoming Eid-ul-Azha. strengthen and improve the level domestic animals, such as cattle, Director Health Services, of preparedness in prevention buffaloes, goats, and sheep are MN Report Karachi, Dr Muhammad Taufiq, and control of CCHF. He said silent carriers of this virus and KARACHI - The Governor Sindh said an awareness campaign Congo viral fever is deadly viral the adult ticks feed on these Muhammad Zubair has approved about Congo has been launched disease spread through tick-bites animals. and declared Karachi Medical and in the city under the supervision found on animals and people He said CCHF virus is Dental College (KMDC) as the of Health Department Sindh. who deal with dairy farming and transmitted to people either by constituent college of University of He said hundreds of awareness livestock are likely to get infected tick bites or through contact with Karachi on the request of Governing pamphlets have been distributed and carry the virus. The Congo infected animal blood or tissues Body of KMDC and with the consent through Districts Health Officers infected person can infect other during immediately after of University of Karachi. (DHOs), while banners were people therefore precautionary Continued on Page 10

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 05 Draft of code of ethics to curb unethical medical practices finalized 2017 MN Report sell medicines of particular pharmaceutical KARACHI - The Drug Regulatory Authority of companies at their clinics and obtain October 21 Pakistan (DRAP) has finalized a draft of a code commissions in return. of ethics to curb unethical practices by the Dr Aslam said that under the new code of ethics Vascular Interventional Course pharma industry and doctors and to safeguard being prepared by his regulatory authority, Clinical Interventional Oncology Symposium the interest of patients. doctors serving at public and private hospitals at Lahore. "We have prepared a code of ethics to regulate would not be contacted by pharmaceutical the relationship companies directly January 19-21, 2018 between the for foreign tours; pharmaceutical instead, Indus Health Network 4th Biennial industry and managements of Conference at Marriott Hotel, Karachi. doctors, and in this the hospitals would regard the Pakistan decide to send INTERNATIONAL Medical and Dental doctors to Council (PMDC) is international also being involved conferences, September 5-7 to take action seminars and Fighting Back Against Infectious Diseases against doctors who trainings. at Barnet, United Kingdom are found to be Penalties and indulging in unethical practices, which includes criminal cases would be lodged against acquiring monetary benefits from the pharmaceutical companies and their September 22-24 pharmaceutical industry," said DRAP chief managements for bribing doctors, involvement International Conference on “Interdisciplinary executive officer (CEO) Dr Muhammad Aslam in unethical practices and tax evasion if they Interaction on Non-Communicable while talking to a group of journalists in Karachi. found to be indulged in unethical practices, he Diseases” at Cuddalore, India. Doctors are often accused of prescribing maintained. unnecessary medicines to patients in exchange This year so far, he noted, they had cancelled of monetary benefits, foreign and local tours, the licenses of 13 pharmaceutical companies September 28-30 and several other incentives. Some doctors also Continued on Page 14 2017 International Congress of Diabetes and Metabolism at Seoul, Korea, Republic Of Punjab medical teams serving dengue October 5-7 3rd Abu Dhabi International Conference in patients in Peshawar: Shehbaz Sharif Dermatology and Aesthetics at Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates MN Report LAHORE - Punjab Chief October 27-28 Minister Muhammad Shehbaz The 2nd Asia Pacific Symposium on Sharif has said that the total strength of a medical team from Diabetes, Hypertension, Metabolic the Punjab, including doctors, Syndrome and Pregnancy - DIPAP Greater entomologists and paramedics, China at Shanghai, China exceeds 80 members who are all currently serving dengue- October 6-8 affected people in Peshawar. He said that due to the medical The 5th Scientific Meeting of the Asian teams sent as a gesture of Federation of Osteoporosis Societies at goodwill and human affection, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia the mutual bonds of love and affection have been further stationed at Safaid Dheri, entomologists and six assistant November 9-10 enhanced between people of Tehelkaal Bala and entomologists included in the two provinces, said a Bashtakhura, where patients team of Additional DG Dengue 3rd Annual International Heart Failure spokesman for the Punjab were being provided with Control Punjab Dr. Conference at Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Health Department. various treatment facilities. Farrukh Sultan have also The spokesman said medical The spokesman said that six provided capacity building team of Primary & Secondary ambulances of Punjab trainings to the local staff about Health Department of the Emergency Rescue Service dengue surveillance and 2017 Punjab government that went 1122 were also sent there identity of dengue larvae there. to Peshawar on the instructions along with trained staff and On the directions of Punjab of Punjab Chief Minister patients were being given Chief Minister, a dedicated Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to treatment. helpline 0800-99000 has been SEPTEMBER 17 World Trauma Day 20 World Osteoporosis Day treat dengue patients as well The spokesman said that the started to provide guidance and 9 International Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Day 24 World Polio Day as to help overcome the experts of Dengue Expert awareness about dengue 21 World Alzheimer’s Day 29 World Stroke Day 20 World Retina Week NOVEMBER dengue disease there had Advisory Group of the Punjab disease to Pashto speaking 25 World Pharmacist Day treated 2,062 patients so far. had provided capacity building populace. 26 World Retina Day 1 Lung Cancer Awareness Month 29 World Heart Day 9 World Quality Day The teams also conducted tests training to doctors of KPK Through this service, the 14 International Diabetes Day OCTOBER 17 World Chronic Obstructive of 595 people out of these, 175 Health Department about doctors provide necessary Pulmonary Disease Day 8 World Sight Day have been diagnosed with treatment and case information about precautionary 10 World Mental Health Day 26 World Anti-Obesity Day dengue disease. He said three management of dengue measures and symptoms of 12 World Arthritis Day DECEMBER 12 World Bone And Joint Week medical health units of the patients. dengue in Pashto language to 15 World Handwashing Day 1 World Aids Day 16 World Food Day 3 International Day of Disabled Persons Punjab government had been In addition to it, five the people. 17 World Spine Day 5 World Patient Safety Day 06 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 Appointment of doctors DRAP ‘fails’ to seize supply of in KTH without PMDC expired medicines certificate stayed MN Report MN Report ISLAMABAD - The Drug Regulatory Authority PESHAWAR - The Peshawar High Court of Pakistan (DRAP) has failed to seize expired (PHC) stopped the appointments of the medicines, which were exposed to extreme doctors in the Khyber Teaching Hospital temperature and later supplied to the market, (KTH)'s Orthopaedic Department if they an official recently confirmed with the media. do not have the Pakistan Medical and The Karachi-based Federal Inspector of Drugs Dental Council (PMDC)'s level-four (FID) wrote a letter to the Ministry of National certificate. Health Services (NHS) asking for an immediate line i.e. assurance of availability of quality and A two-member bench comprising Justice action by recalling the medicines from Sindh's safe drugs for fellow citizens." Abdul Shakoor and Justice Syed rural area, as the medicines had been exposed "As investigation is open, this office requires Muhammad Attique Shah issued the order to extreme temperature for around 45 days. coordination from the office of Drug Control and sought a response from the hospital A letter available to the media stated that the Administration, Karachi for the names of administration. issue is pending since July and expired companies that supplied medicines to the PPHI The court issued the stay order in a writ medicines are being supplied to the market and central licensing Board, Islamabad to get petition filed by Dr Muhammad Shoaib, owing to DRAP's silence. names of qualified persons of those companies associate professor in Orthopaedic Despite of several reminders to the federal and their CNIC cards for onward proceedings Department of the hospital. authority, no action has been taken to secure on the matter under the Drugs Act 1976 and During the course of hearing, the petitioner's or recall the expired medicine from the market. DRAP Act 2012," it says. lawyer Khalid Anwar submitted before the "It is just for the record that none of the officers Talking to the media, Federal Inspector of bench that the petitioner was associate of DRAP has so far contacted the office of Drugs Obaid Ali said that government has given professor in the hospital. He argued that a undersigned for any advice, direction or Peoples Primary Health Initiative (PPHI), a summary had been approved for pursuance even upon several formal requests," non-governmental organization, the contract establishment of a third ward in Orthopaedic the letter said. of storing the medicines. Department of the hospital, but later the The letter further stated, "It is a matter of safety He said the condition of the medicines in the Board of Governors (BOG), in violation of and health of the public at large. The procedure warehouses has gone worse due to extreme the chief minister's decision, approved of DRAP to pick up drug samples and get them hot weather. setting up of a sub-specialty, which required tested from CDL is highly questionable as long "The medicines worth million of rupees, and the PMDC's fourth-level certificate. as drug products have been exposed to are being supplied to the rural areas," he said. He said that a majority of the doctors did extreme temperature. He also said that the federal authorities were not have the certificate. He further said that In this way, DRAP allowed the continuation of contacted multiple times to take action against the appointment of doctors not having the consumption of the drugs that otherwise may the organisation by constituting a committee certificate was illegal and against the law. harm the consumers. All duty-bound necessary but all in vain. Earlier, Pharma Bureau had actions are requested to ensure the bottom Continued on Page 14 Serious effort underway to bridge treatment gap in mental disorders

MN Report to develop a detailed plan of action ISLAMABAD - The implementation for the training of general of the World Health Organization's physicians at Tehsil level and Mental Health Gap Action separate trainings for paramedical Programme provides an evidence- staff in the relevant PHC facilities based solution to bridge the huge in each of the selected pilot district. treatment gap in mental, The planning workshop was neurological and substance use participated by a group of master disorders in Pakistan. trainers along with district This was the consensus achieved managers from pilot districts. in selected tehsils of the pilot discussions and presented a draft during a two-day planning for The workshop started with a districts. plan of action showing details as implementation of WHO Mental presentation by Dr. Mohammad Dr. Safi, Director Implementation to who would be doing what, when, Health Gap Action Plan (mhGAP) Assai, WHO Representative in at the Ministry of Health briefed where and how. It was tentatively in four selected districts of Pakistan Pakistan, who advocated for the participants of the process decided that trainings for general namely Hyderabad in Sindh, integrated people-centred health adopted for implementation of the physicians would be held during Quetta in Balochistan, Rawalpindi services for implementation of initiative in Pakistan. Prof. Fareed September-October and those for in Punjab, and Peshawar in KPK. mhGAP in the model districts. A highlighted the magnitude of paramedics during November- Following the Training of Trainers team from the Institute of mental health disorders and December. The participants also (TOTs) held in December 2016, Psychiatry headed by Prof. Fareed alarmingly low number of health discussed the supervision and the Ministry of Health, supported Minhas facilitated the workshop. workforce in Pakistan. monitoring plan. by WHO Collaborating Centre for The objective of the workshop is The participants worked in groups The provincial governments will Mental Health located in the to review the mhGAP training to come out with detailed evaluate the pilot studies and scale Institute of Psychiatry in Rawalpindi material, brainstorm on the next implementation plan of action for up integration of mental health in and WHO Country Office Pakistan steps, and come out with a clear their respective areas of PHC by developing and funding organized this planning exercise roadmap for the cascade trainings jurisdiction. They held detailed PC1s.

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 07 PMA signs MoU Senate body asks PMDC to probe for training of earnings of private medical colleges doctors in China MN Report MN Report ISLAMABAD - The Senate's Standing Committee KARACHI - Pakistan Medical of National Health Services (NHS) on Thursday Association (PMA) signed a directed the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council memorandum of understanding (PMDC) to examine the earnings and expenditures (MoU) with China Cultural Heritage of Shifa College of Medicine and Islamic Foundation for training of young International Medical College (IIMC) of Ripha doctors in China in different International University. specialties. The committee met under chairmanship of Sajjad Secretary General PMA Centre, PMA Hussain Turi and discussed many agenda items. Dr SM Qaisar Sajjad and Coordinator During the meeting, parliamentarians mostly "A reality-based decision on setting the fees of Pak-China Medical Corridor/Hon. focused on the issue of the exorbitant fees being private medical institutions will help deal with the Treasurer PMA Centre, Dr Qazi charged by the medical colleges from the students. situation," she said. The minister said that private Muhammad Wasiq and from China The meeting was divided over the issue as Federal medical education was very expensive all over Cultural Heritage Foundation, Deputy NHS Minister Saira Afzal Tarar, Senator Ayesha the world. She said that private medical institutions Secretary General, Mr Geng Xianhui, Raza Farooq and some other government officials were charging handsome fees and providing high Chairman, Mr Fran Fu, Medical supported private medical colleges' decision to quality education. Treatment Crop, An Hui Guangli increase fees. They said that these colleges had The PMDC officials informed the committee that signed the MOU. The basic purpose to make heavy expenditures to provide medical private medical colleges had increased the fees of this MoU is to arrange young education to their students. after a Supreme Court decision in 2009. doctors training in China in different On the other hand, senators Turi, Attique Sheikh, Senator Ashok Kumar remarked that private specialties. This MoU will last till Ashok Kumar and Kulsoom Parveen refused to medical colleges were earning millions of rupees 2022, and is renewable afterwards. support the move. in profit. "In return, they are only providing low- Initially, it was decided that one The committee chairman traded hot words with quality education," he said. hundred doctors will be selected, the minister over the issue. The minister Senator Kulsoom Parveen suggested that after twenty doctors each year. First batch condemned the remarks. holding talks with private medical colleges, the of the young doctors will be Senator Kalsoom Parveen also objected to the government should bring proposal before the comprised from the field of proceedings after she was not given a chance to standing committee. cardiology. The salient feature of this speak. She also tried to walk out from the meeting. "It is the responsibility of the state to provide quality MOU is that all these training Federal Minister Saira Afzal Tarar told the meeting education to citizens. The committee will see what programs will be totally sponsored that ministry would negotiate with private medical is in the best interests of students," she said. including the air fare. colleges and try to reach an acceptable solution. The committee chairman asked the PMDC to Former Secretary General PMA She said the colleges earned profits because of verify the profits and losses of private medical Centre , Dr Mirza Ali Azhar, General loopholes in the policy. institutions. Continued on Page 14 Secretary PMA Karachi, Dr Ahmed Bhimani, Joint Secretary PMA Karachi, Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro and Senior Manager, Mehmat Arif Firal and Medical Crop AnHui Senate panel slams HEC Guangli. Secretary General, Pakistan Medical Association (Centre), Dr SM Qaisar for ‘continuous interference’ Sajjad, said PMA believed that this MN Report MoU will open new doors of cooperation in medical education ISLAMABAD - Coming down federal government for what they an amicable way forward. and training and will provide golden hard on the Higher Education called 'trampling on rights of the "After working for three years, opportunities for young doctors to Commission (HEC) for its people'. the committee finalised its learn advance techniques in their 'continuous interference' in "After the 18th amendment, the recommendations on July 28 medical practice. universities at the provincial level, federal HEC's ordinance was and forwarded them to the CCI a Senate panel urged that the one of those subjects which were which would discuss," he said. authority's role be confined to put in Part II of the federal However, PPP's Senator Taj Encroachment outside the federal level in view of the legislative list and later it was Haider asked how the CCI could 18th Amendment of the also decided that the decide about any such act or Civil Hospital removed Constitution. commission will continue until ordinance as it was not superior Members of the panel also the amendment is made to its to parliament. He said the Part KARACHI - A team of Anti- criticized the Centre for dragging ordinance," HEC Chairperson II of the legislative list talked Encroachment Cell, District its feet on the question of Mukhtar Ahmed told the about formulation of standards Municipal Corporation South, implementing the 18th members. in higher education at the federal headed by Deputy Director, Syed amendment in letter and spirit Ahmed said following level. Kazim Shah has removed all and ignoring calls for giving establishment of higher "But the HEC is holding the funds encroachments outside Civil autonomy to provinces. education bodies in Punjab and which should be given to Hospital Karachi (CHK). The Senate's Functional Sindh, confusion was created provinces," he said, adding that On the complaint of Medical Committee on Devolution, about role and function of the the CCI has no right to violate Superintendent of Civil Hospital chaired by Senator Mir Kabeer federal HEC. the constitutional consent of Karachi, Dr Tahir Aziz sheikh, the Ahmed, was discussing "So the matter was referred to parliament. Anti-Encroachment Cell of DMC amendments to the HEC the CCI [Council of Common Senator Usman Khan Kakar said South has removed all Ordinance 2002 in the wake of Interest] which made a sub- insincerity was evident from the encroachments outside hospital for devolution. committee headed by the then attitude of the government with smooth flow of traffic and It was the first such meeting on minister for planning and regard to provincial autonomy ambulances carrying emergency the issue and the members used development, Ahsan Iqbal, to as all matters of education patients toward Emergency the opportunity to let off their discuss the issue meticulously should have been handed over Department of hospital. steam against the HEC and the with provinces and come up with Continued on Page 14

08 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 Pakistani nurses to serve in UK Central Drug Testing Lab healthcare system: OEC awaiting WHO pre-qualification MN Report MN Report part of the KARACHI - The ISLAMABAD - Overseas Employment sponsorship costs," Central Drug Testing Corporation (OEC) will send Pakistani nurses he said. Laboratory in Karachi to work in the healthcare system in the United "Candidates must have successfully completed is in the final stages Kingdom. at least 10 years of school education before of getting the World OEC Managing Director Perveez Janjua said starting a post-secondary education besides Health Organisation's that a leading client of OEC in United Kingdom nursing training programme, leading to (WHO) pre-qualification required the services of nurses on attractive registration in their home country as an entry- status, and by the end of this year, the CDL salaries and terms and conditions of level registered nurse or midwife. The training of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan employment under a UK Trust Sponsor Tier- 2 programme must have been entirely focused would become accredited, and that would visa for three years extendable for another on nursing. Candidates must mention their help in improving the quality of local drugs three years. educational details at one page CV," he said. and enhance their exports, said Dr Aslam. "Under terms and conditions, nurses' They said that nurses should be well-versed in "Not a single drug testing lab in Pakistan is accommodation, travel expenses, health English Language required for onward pre-qualified by WHO in Pakistan, but after surcharge, visa, certificate of sponsorship, submission to the employer. "Selected getting this status, it would help Pakistan in registration fee, learning skills charges, airport candidates will have to pass IELTS. Interested saving precious foreign exchange and transfer and in bound flight will be paid by the candidates must submit their complete CVs to exporting our drugs to various other employer. However, nurses will have to pay email [email protected] before August 25, countries of the world." registration fees. The selected candidates would 2017," he said. initially be appointed as care workers. The He said that nurses might also contact the employer will deduct small installments from offices of OEC, in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachim 135 more dengue cases the salary of the selected nurses to cover some Quetta and Peshawar. surface in Karachi MN Report Bangladesh offers 23 seats in medical KARACHI - 135 more dengue fever cases colleges to Pakistani students were reported in Karachi city from MN Report August 01 to date, BANGLADESH - The Bangladeshi government has taking the patients toll offered 23 seats to Pakistani students for doing to 810 in the city since 1st MBBS/BDS courses in its government medical January 2017. colleges on self-finance basis for academic session As per report issued by Prevention and 2018 under South Asian Association for Regional Control Program for Dengue in Sindh, as Cooperation (SAARC) quota. many as 135 new dengue fever cases Applications must be submitted to National Testing surfaced in the city from August 01, to date. Services (NTS) by September 14th, 2017. 2017. The selected students will have to pay A total 822 dengue fever cases were tuition fee and other charges, which are at par with rates for local students of Bangladesh, reported in Sindh province so far, out of said an official of Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination (IPC) said. which 810 are in Karachi, five in Hyderabad, He said that the selection would be made on merit and based on scores in NTS test. five in Tharparkar or Mithi and two in Umer "Provincial/regional quota will be observed as per government rules. The final selection will Kot, respectively. be made by the donor country," he said. JPMC management facing resistance from illegal occupants

MN Report occupying the 96 Doctors male House Officers and KARACHI - The Jinnah Mess Rooms and they PGs who come from Postgraduate Medical were living in these rooms interior Sindh for further Center (JPMC) illegally despite the medical education in administration has been completion of courses or institution or training. facing strong resistance training. The Unfortunately, these single from illegal occupants administration had issued rooms have been occupied including former doctors, notices to these doctors by former doctors and nurses and paramedical several occasions but they management has been institutions. He said allotted home after staff to vacate government had refused to vacate the facing resistance from whenever management retirement for six months houses due to their political rooms. them. has tried to vacate houses period and after this he/she influence, an official at The official informed that Similarly, few doctors, from them; they instantly is not authorized to JPMC told media. 96 Doctors Mess had been paramedical staff and approached the court and possess the house. Some house officers, divided into two portions; nurses were also holding use political influence to On the other hand, lower Postgraduates (PGs) one for families and the possession of homes pressurize the admin. He grades of hospital had also doctors and officer-bearers another for singles. He said at Doctors Colony after informed that as per law a converted two room of Young Doctors the administration allots their retirement and government employee can quarters into multi-story Association have been single rooms to female and transfers to other stay in his government Continued on Page 14

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 09 Dr Ruth Pfau laid to rest ... Pakistan, and to be established as arsenic in the country," Farooqui Sindh Govt. launches ... Continued from page 03 the biggest health & pharma event said. But "only 1,193 samples have Continued from page 05 attended Dr Ruth's state funeral. of the country. been used to predict the situation slaughter. He said public health The strict security arrangements in the whole Indus Valley, which is workers along with animal herders, have been made in place for Dr Woman gives birth to ... unrealistic." veterinarians, para-veterinary staff, Ruth's burial, with heavy Continued from page 04 In any case, no map can tell livestock workers, animal contingents of security forces as Medical Superintendent, Civil villagers whether a specific well is merchants, butchers and well as aerial surveillance deployed Hospital Karachi, Dr Tahir Aziz contaminated. Arsenic slaughterhouse workers are at risk for the occasion. Sheikh, said incubators are concentration varies widely from of the disease. available in health facility and there pump to pump, and the only way He said medical camps have also Governor Sindh opens Int’l ... was no shortage of incubators. He to know for certain is to test each been established in cattle markets Continued from page 04 informed that neonatal care facilities one. to provide first aid and treatment delegates from 25 countries were being run through public- Shallow wells are less likely to be facilities to visitors and cattle including China, India, Singapore, private partnership and he was tainted. Deeper ones, such as handlers. He said medicines will France, Germany, Iran, Taiwan, unaware about this development. those run by the government's also be provided to patients in UK, UAE, USA, Japan, Korea, Italy Drinking Water Filtration sites, may medical camps. He said fumigation and others are participating in the Dangerously high water ... be more at risk. around the cattle markets is the Continued from page 05 event. The event incorporates This makes the problem especially responsibility of Karachi seminars, workshops, conference tainted by the colorless, odorless acute for thousands of city-dwellers Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). on pharmaceutical best practices, toxin. who have no access to clean water Dr Taufiq said there is currently no anaesthesia, radiology, cardiac Arsenic is naturally occurring and and rely on what the government vaccine available for human and surgery, ENT, neurology, maternal kills human cells - causing skin supplies. At one Islamabad the only way to reduce infection is health, dermatology, tobacco lesions, organ damage, heart neighbourhood filtration site on by raising awareness. He advised control, basic life support, and disease and cancer. There is no Wednesday, resident Ali Hasan the citizens to adopt precautionary stress management. A cure for arsenic poisoning. said the struggle was real. measures like wearing gloves and considerable number of foreign "This study is important because it "It's the government's job to provide other protective clothing while dignitaries are schedule to be draws attention to an overlooked - us with clean drinking water, but handling animals during speakers at these events. yet solvable - problem of vast everywhere we have to travel to slaughtering, butchering and Health Asia is a primary health magnitude affecting the health of find clean water," Hasan said while culling procedures in sector event that encompasses all millions of villagers," said filling a large plastic jug to take the major industries including geochemist Alexander van Geen home to his neighbourhood. slaughterhouses or at home. pharma and healthcare of Columbia University's Lamont- A survey submitted to Pakistan's Earlier, National Institute of Health manufacturers, medical & surgical Doherty Earth Observatory, who parliament last year suggested (NIH) had also issued an advisory equipment/instrument providers, was not involved in the study. He nearly 80 percent of water sources for prevention and control of medical institutions, hospitals and said the patterns it identifies are in 2,807 villages across 24 districts Congo Fever for upcoming Eid-ul- their laboratories, pharmaceutical broadly consistent with data he and were contaminated with bacteria Azha, as there is no vaccine for products, raw material supplies and other researchers have collected or other pollutants, to levels that the disease, people have been allied services under one roof. from some 10,000 well tests in the were unsafe to drink. advised to avoid close contact with The objectives behind this theme region. Now, "the presence of arsenic in animals. is to further the advantages of One of those researchers, Abida drinking water is becoming a In 2016, Congo claimed ten lives CPEC in the Health & Pharma Farooqui, assistant professor of widespread health problem," said in Karachi out of which four of the Industry which includes relocation environmental sciences at Luis Rodríguez-Lado, a chemist patients belonged to Karachi, two of Health & Pharma Industry from Islamabad's Qaid-e-Azam with the University of Santiago de each from Bahawalpur & China to Pakistan, value addition University, said the new study's Compostela in Spain who was not Afghanistan, one from Hyderabad in Health & Pharma Industry of sample size may be too small to involved in the study. Yet "there is and one hailed from elsewhere in Pakistan which will increase joint draw clear conclusions. a general lack of information" about Sindh, respectively while 75 others ventures, investment and "The study revealed very important which areas in Asia are most at were also diagnosed in Karachi technology transfer from China to and an emerging problem of risk. last year.

10 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 Plane load of deaths daily ... DRAP initiates post-marketing ... common ailments such as flu and the healthcare providers. He said Continued from front page Continued from front page migraine as well as some the most important point is that Sindh present in Pakistan is lowest in the was being asked by its staff to pay neurological disorders. The Government with the help of PMA region. The low taxation rate them money illegally for speeding government insistence to control after great deal of efforts has encourages the public, especially up the drug registration process. their prices have made their established Sindh Healthcare youth to take up this powerful "We are trying our best to safeguard production commercially not viable. Commission and the Chairman, addiction. Significant increases in the interest of patients as well as of Consequently, local companies CEO, Directors and other staff has tobacco taxes are a highly effective the pharmaceutical industry so that have stopped their production but also been appointed for more than tobacco control strategy and could nobody has complaints against each they are available in the black a year now. lead to significant improvements in other and the relationship remains market at a very high price." But neither, they are provided any public health according to recent beneficial to either of them." suitable places for the office of the WHO and World Bank reports, he All pharmaceutical companies have NICVD deemed world’s ... HCC nor the allocated funds are added. also been given six months till Continued from page 02 released. It is a sad situation is both Dr Sobia Bilal of International Medical December this year for having bar services include angiography, ways. It appears that the government University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia codes on the packs of their products. angioplasty, bypass and open heart does not want to provide the in her presentation highlighted the A notification in this regard was cardiac surgery (adult and healthcare to public and is not need for incorporating tobacco control issued in June 2017, making it pediatric), ECG, echocardiography, interested in seeing the HCC and smoking cessation in the mandatory to have bar codes on the emergency services, ETT, ICU, functioning. HCC is a proper forum curriculum of medical and nursing packs the drugs. critical care unit, laboratory, life- to address the issues mentioned schools in Pakistan. She urged the Dr Aslam said: "The system of bar saving devices (ICD and CRT-P)/D), above and all other problem being government to set up smoking codes would eliminate the chances medicines, outpatient services, faced by the healthcare system cessation clinics at all major hospitals of fake and spurious drugs as pacemakers, primary PCI (heart including quackery, patients' rights, of the country. Dr Bilal regretted on nobody would be able to scan the attack during angioplasty), stress doctors' rights, etc. It is all highly the high smoking prevalence rates bar code to find out the legal and echocardiography, TEE, thallium condemnable. amongst the doctors of Pakistan. She production information about the and x-rays. They demanded of the Sindh urged the doctors in Pakistan to not medicines being sold in the market." He added that NICVD has recently government to provide protection to only set a good example by not started a program for replacing doctor fraternity and make smoking themselves, but also work Children’s lives at risk ... pacemakers (TPM/PPM) totally free operational Sindh Healthcare to make their clinics, health centers Continued from page 02 of cost. These procedures cost Rs Commission to protect patients and and hospitals smoke free. hormones responsible for managing 4000, Rs 80,000 to Rs 135,000 for doctors' rights. Mr Shahzad Alam of WHO Islamabad the balance of potassium and TPM and PPM respectively. It has appealed to the government that the sodium in body, regulating its also started program for placing life- JPMC facing 50% drug ... "Prohibition of Smoking and metabolism, sugar level and blood saving devices (ICD/CRT-P/D) Continued from page 03 Protection of non-smoker's Health pressure. totally free of cost. Its cost varies He said JPMC is one of the largest Ordinance of 2002" be strictly "They instead overproduce from Rs0.56 million to Rs1.75 tertiary care government hospitals, enforced in order to protect the public androgens (male hormones). The million. in Sindh, where patients from all over health from tobacco. Pakistan is one disease can result in serious illness, He said that the NICVD has Pakistan come for treatment but of the countries where cigarette growth problem and gender identity established its satellite centers at drugs are not available due of consumption is increasing with the disorders. If left untreated, it can Civil Hospital Larkana. The satellite traditional lethargy of high-ups of passage of every year as according lead to death. The drugs are centers at Tando Mohammad Khan, health department. to a WHO report, every adult required to be taken for life," he Sukkur, Khairpur, Nawabshah, He informed that although consumes 510 cigarettes on average said, adding that early diagnosis, Mirpurkhas, Hyderabad and administration is providing life-saving every year which is alarming. He said proper treatment and care could Sehwan will also be made functional medicines to patients with emergency that the display pictures on cigarettes help patients live a normal life. in the beginning of 2018. requirement, but the majority of OPD was approved by the government but According to NICH sources, over Sindh health minister Dr Sikandar and admitted patients have been was put on the back burner when the 400 children affected with CAH are Mendhro, deputy speaker Sindh deprived of drugs. He said the stock UK delegation met the Health and registered at the institute, which Assembly Syeda Shehla Raza, of medicines has almost ended in Finance Minister. offered these drugs free of cost to MPA Dr Sohrab Sarki, Mayor the hospital and provincial health Prof. Ayyaz Ali Khan of Shaikh Zaid the patients. Karachi Waseem Akhtar were also authorities concerned could not Medical Complex Lahore, urged the As the life-saving medicines, the present. arrange medicines yet which was doctors to start making a difference sources said, were not registered affecting the poor patients visiting and own this problem by counseling with DRAP, they were smuggled PMA expressed concern ... the hospital. their patients to quit. He also urged into the country. "Their price Continued from page 02 The shortage of drugs in the hospital the hospitals to develop Smoking fluctuates according to their people attacked the facility, has compelled poor patients to Cessation units to further help people availability. When availability is manhandled the doctors and staff, purchase medicines from medical to quit. Talking about the hazards of scarce, patients have to pay 10 threatened them with dire stores who come from all over second hand smoking he said that times more than their actual price consequence, recorded the whole Pakistan for better health facilities in passive smoking is a serious health and that, too, without confidence in episode on mobile phones and finally the hospital. risk to a non-smoker. He necessitated their quality," a doctor said, adding uploaded it on social media. The official further informed that that all public places and public that these drugs were being He said doctors' first point of concern 2,500 to 3,000 patients visit the transport should be made truly smoke manufactured in India. is that Pakistan has the highest birth different OPDs of the hospital each free in order to protect the health of The government, he noted, should rates in the region and the poorest day, and patients are forced to stand non-smokers. direct DRAP to register these healthcare system in the country, in queues for hours to get medicines Dr Syed Raza Hussain of Shaukat medicines at the earliest and issue thus it is the responsibility of the but they do not get all medicines Khanum Memorial Cancer hospital licence to pharmaceutical government to provide quality prescribed by doctors due to shortage Lahore warned that tobacco in any companies to make sure their healthcare facilities to children to of medicines in the store. The form increases the risk of cancer in availability and uninterrupted supply. deal with these kind of emergencies. hundreds of poor patients face the body. He regretted that tobacco Pharmaceutical companies, he "Secondly the harassments and hardships as they are compelled to is responsible for almost 50% of all believed, had shown no interest in violence against doctors at the buy injections, drips and other cancer cases in the country, yet manufacturing the drugs due to low private hospitals is not acceptable medicines from private medical smoking is still being advertised in profit margin involved in the by enemies as this is a usual practice stores. The patients were being the country at the point of sale and business. that people attack the hospital and advised by doctors to buy medicines, is portrayed through TV drama serials Qaiser Waheed representing the misbehave and physically beat the drips and syringes from private as a pleasurable, cool, glamorous Pakistan Pharmaceutical doctors and the staff and most of the medical stores as these medicines act. He demanded a comprehensive Manufacturers' Association (PPMA), time the hospital property is also were not available in the hospital ban on all forms of tobacco said more than 300 drugs were on damaged " he added. pharmacy. advertising and sponsorship in the DRAP's list of essential medicines Secretary General, PMA Centre, Dr Executive Director, Jinnah country, including advertising at shops out of which 15 faced an acute Qaisar Sajjad said it is the Postgraduate Medical Center and through TV drama serials and shortage in the country. "These responsibilities of the government to (JPMC), Dr Seemin Jamali was not films. medicines include drugs for provide security to the hospitals and available for comments.

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 11 “Bait Bazi Competition” JPMC incorporates state-of-the-art at Dow University technology for cancer patients MN Report KARACHI - Dow University of Health MN Report patients. Sciences (DUHS) celebrating KARACHI - The most advanced PET-Scan Prof Tariq said this most advanced cyclotron independence week, and in doing so the and Cyclotron Unit has been installed unit will help in identification of the precise university organized "Bait Bazi successfully at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical parts of the body having cancer affected cells. Competition" at "Muin Auditorium" Dow Center (JPMC), which is used for detection He said due to non-availability of PET scan Medical College, where principle Dow and treatment of cancer and cyclotron at any Medical College Professor Karatar patients. public sector hospital, Dawani, Vice Principle Professor Adnan Aziz, Senior Faculty members and a large Head of Radiology cancer patients were number of students participated. Department, JPMC, suffering badly. He said In the competition three teams were Prof Dr Tariq Mehmood, cyclotron is a state of participating in the event including Ms, said PET scan & the art unit which is Asiya and Ms, Saman Naz from Dow cyclotron facility is used relatively easy to Medical College, Ms, Marium and Ms, Elia for diagnoses and handle and operate as Khalid from Institute of Health treatment of cancer compared to Management, Ms, Saba Rizwan and patients. He informed conventional Hafiza Iqra from institute of physical that the facility had cyclotrons. He said the medicine and Rehabilitation. become operational main feature of this Responsibilities of judges were performed and over 140 sessions machine is that it works by famous poet Prof Tahir Hussain and had been done successfully. He said an on the principle of dose on demand and hence Prof Irum Kazim. average of ten to twelve sessions is being its wastage ratio is close to zero. After very tough competition the team of conducted each day. He said the important He further informed that presently this facility Dow Medical College including Ms Saman aspect of the facility is that it is the first is available only in the hospitals of private Naz and Asiya won the competition while installation in any public hospital of the country. sector but none of the public sector hospital runner up team was from Institute of He said this facility is considered the backbone has this unit and JPMC has become the first Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of all oncology treatments as it helps doctors public sector health facility to have possession including Ms, Saba Rizwan and Hafiza to diagnose the stages of cancer and helps of this machine. He said PET scan and Iqra. them decide the methodology required for Cyclotron Unit had been installed under a Prof Tahir Hussain appreciated the efforts the treatment. He said a single session costs public-private partnership. He it was of organizers for arranging such an thousands of rupees at private sector hospitals sophisticated equipment used for scanning excellent competition. He also appreciated while JPMC is the only institution in the the whole body using radioisotopes for the all teams specially Miss, Samon Naz from country which provides these state of the art early detection of cancer and also other Dow Medial College and Miss, Saba medical services free of cost to deserving diseases. Rizwan from institute of physical medicine and Rehabilitation. In the end, Principle Dow Medical College Professor Kartar Dawani presented shield to judges as token of appreciation. Dr. All stakeholders want Karachi Hussain Ali focal person of extra-cellular activities offered vote of thanks to the operation to continue: governor participants. MN Report Rangers install water cooler KARACHI - Sindh Governor leading healthcare suppliers, exhibition Mohammad Zubair said some manufacturers and service would at ASH, Qatar Hospital elements were trying to create providers are participating in improve understanding of a law and order situation in the exhibition to present the health issues and availability MN Report the city, but the Karachi latest industry innovations, of health services in Pakistan, KARACHI - Sindh Rangers have started operation would continue till networks and businesses. especially in the Sindh their project of providing clean drinking its logical end and nobody Several public and private province. water to the citizens in different parts of would be allowed to disrupt health varsities, including the "This exhibition will present a the metropolis including hospitals, the peace and tranquility Dow University of Health soft image of Pakistan, educational institutions, and roadsides. achieved in the recent years Sciences (DUHS), medical especially Karachi in the According to Rangers spokesperson, after many sacrifices. colleges and health world and within the country Telectric water coolers with capacity of "All stakeholders are in the institutions have established also. There is an immense 500 liters water had been installed in favour of continuing the their stalls at the event. need to create health Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Mujahid Colony, Karachi operation and it Several diagnostic centers awareness among people Askari Bank, Qatar Hospital, KIU, Timoria would continue till its logical providing blood screening and I hope that this event area and Hub River Road. Chiller plants end. Nobody will be allowed services and radiology would apprise the people of have been installed in Civil Hospital and to disrupt peace and create facilities have also health issues and ways and Saddar areas. a law and order situation in established their stalls at the means for their prevention," Spokesman said 3000 to 5000 gallons the city as everybody wants expo, while several he added. steel water tanks had been installed in continuity in the process of healthcare providers are He maintained that Karachi Bangali Para, Baloch Colony, Abidabad, peace in Karachi," he said showcasing the latest was the economic hub of Baldia town, Ghazi Saeedabad, and while talking to journalists advancements in the field of Pakistan and the holding of Rashidabad. The 4000 to 5000 gallons after inaugurating the 13th medicine, surgery, such an impressive event in tanks have been installed in Petrol Pump Health and Pharma Asia 2017 diagnostics and rehabilitation. the city also endorsed the Chowrangi, TTC College, North International Exhibition and The governor lauded the trust and confidence of Nazimabad, Orangi Town, KDA, Surjani Conference at the Expo organizers for holding such foreigners in the state and its Town, Abidabad, Hazara Colony, Afrdi Centre. an impressive exhibition at institutions in maintaining Colony, Baldia Town, Gulshan-e-Ghazi Hundreds of healthcare Karachi, which was being peace in the metropolis. and Saeedabad areas. industry professionals with a attended by local and foreign Terming it an ideal platform large number of the world's delegates. He hoped that the Continued on Page 14

12 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 Multi-Disciplinary Paediatric Rehab Commercial delegation of China meets PMA Services Dept opened at DUHS representatives MN Report MN Report KARACHI - Chief Minister of KARACHI - A Commercial Delegation from Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah Peoples Republic of China paid a visit to inaugurated the "first" the Pakistan Medical Association at PMA established Multi-disciplinary House Karachi where they discussed issues Paediatric Rehab Services pertaining to medical instruments supply to Department at Institute of Physical Medicine and Pakistan. Rehabilitation (IPM&R) of The delegation was headed by Gang Dow University of Health Xianhui, Horace Wang (GM of Mindray Sciences (DUHS). Medical Co. Ltd., and Fu Quan (Chairman The inauguration ceremony of Guang Li Medical Company of Anhui was attended by the Minister Province China. of Health Dr Sikandar Ali provide more funds to provide school and the community. The following representatives of PMA Mandhro, Secretary Health best medical facilities and In-charge Prof, Irum Rizwan including Secretary General, PMA Centre, Dr Fazalullah Peajho and Vice wish to support research said, highlighted this Dr SM Qaisar Sajjad, Coordinator Pak-China Chancellor Prof Mohammad work. Muhtrama Benazir department is that it has the Corridor, Dr Qazi M Wasiq, President, PMA Saeed Quraishy Pro-Vice Bhutto Shaheed trauma first and only autism unit in a Karachi, Dr Shoukat Malik, Senior Executive Chancellor Prof Khawar centre is one its example. I teaching hospital in Pakistan Member, Dr Tipu Sultan, Senior Executive Saeed Jamali, Director really appreciate services of .The specific goals for Member, Dr Mirza Ali Azhar and Senior Institute of Physical Institute this rehabilitation centre, this rehabilitation of each effected Executive Member Dr Hamid Manzoor were of Physical Medicine and kind of department real need child are met by our team who present on the occasion. Rehab, Prof. Nabeela of society." The Chief Minister design individual tailored Soomro, Director Finance Mr. said. rehabilitation. The services Nadeem Shakoor and other Minister of Health Dr. that IPM&R teams provides senior faculty members. Sikandar Ali Mahandro, are individualized intervention DUHS takes active part in Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Health Dr. programs, sensory integration Health Asia Exhibition 2017 Chief Minister Sindh said that Fazalullah Peajho, Vice- programs, psychological the government of Sindh is Chancellor Prof, Mohammad assessment, speech therapy, MN Report providing latest medical Saeed Quraishy, Incharge of special school and vocational KARACHI - Dow University of Health facilities for the people of Institute of Physical Medicine program for children with Sciences (DUHS) participates in 13th Health Pakistan so in this regard, and Rehabilitation address to special needs. Further she Asia Exhibition & Conference 2017 at Expo government has approved a the participants. Director of said, about 80% of patients Center, Karachi. uniform policy to provide Institute of Physical Medicine availed free of cost services Nine constituent institutions namely Dow better healthcare facilities to and Rehabilitation Centre from department. Medical College (DMC), Dow International urban and as well as rural Prof, Nabila Soomroo In the end, Pro-Vice Medical College (DIMC), Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad areas of Sindh. Sindh presented the welcome Chancellor, Prof, Khawar Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences government started satellite address to the participants. Saeed Jamali appreciated the (DIKIOHS), Dow International Dental College clinics facilities though rural She said this is designed to government's efforts for (DIDC), Dow Dental College (DDC), Institute areas of province. improve the abilities of healthcare sector and also of Health Management (IHM), Institute of "We also desire to make this children and young people paid thanks for their funds. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation sort of departments, because following their diagnosis which He also paid vote of thanks (IPM&R), Dow Diagnostic, Research every citizen of this country affects their function, thus to the participants and the Laboratory (DDRL) and Riva Water has right to get best facilities allowing them to lead and honourable Chief Guest Chief participated in Health Asia. from government. We will independent life at home Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. The aim of participation to briefed about the academic as well as healthcare facilities being provided by Dow University of Health NIH advises nation to keep distance Sciences. The Ribbon Cutting of Dow University of Health Sciences Stall was done by Governor from qurbaani animals this Eid of Sindh & Chancellor, DUHS Muhammad Zubair along with Pro-Vice Chancellor, Prof MN Report Surveillance Division Khawar Saeed Jamali and Principle Dow KARACHI - National Institute of Health (NIH) (FEDSD), NIH issued International Medical College, Prof Dr Zarnaz has issued an advisory for prevention and an advisory regarding Wahid. Vice Principle, Dow Medical control of Congo Fever for upcoming Eid-ul- Prevention & Control University Prof Adnan Aziz, Vice Principle Azha, as there is no vaccine for the disease, of CCHF. Dow International Dental Collage Dr Ashar people have been advised to avoid close The objective of this Afaq and other senior faculty members were contact with animals. advisory is to sensitise human and animal also present on the occasion. Balochistan remains the most affected healthcare authorities to further strengthen During the exhibition, Stall of Dow Dental province, yet cases have been reported from and improve the level of preparedness in Colleges attracted a large number of almost all geographical regions of the country. prevention and control of CCHF. participants which is providing free dental During 2016, out of 101 confirmed CCHF According to the advisory, Crimean-Congo check-up and awareness regarding dental cases 33 were pronounced dead (CFR: 33 Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a widespread problem and precautions and furthermore per cent). During 2017 till date, a total of 41 disease caused by a tick-borne virus referring them to Dow University hospital confirmed cases have been reported (16 (Nairovirus) of the Bunyaviridae family with with their appointments for further treatment. cases from Balochistan, 15 from Punjab, a case fatality rate of 10-40 per cent. Ticks, On the other hand, stall of IPM&R briefed seven from KPK and three from FATA). The especially of the Hyalommagenus are both the participants about services of latest fatal case reported from Khyber Agency, reservoir and vector for the CCHF virus. occupational therapy, neuro psychology, FATA on 16th August 2017. Numerous wild and domestic animals, such Continued on Page 14 The Field Epidemiology & Disease Continued on Page 14

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 13 PMDC gives conditional green ... warned of strict action against PPHI never interfered, but in matters of NIH advises nation to keep ... Continued from front page including seizure of their products standards and quality. "You can't Continued from page 13 and initiating regularity action. He enforce your jurisdiction on as cattle, buffaloes, goats, and The development comes during the also accused them of quality failure. provinces after the devolution," sheep are silent carriers of this virus 154th session of the Council with The letter states, "Please note that Wahab responded. and the adult ticks feed on these PMDC president Professor Shabir our member companies have been The committee agreed that the animals. Lehri in the chair. The participants supplying PPHI, the customer, with Ministry of Federal Education and The CCHF virus is transmitted to discussed the recommendations of quality products after fulfilling all GMP Professional Training, which is the people either by tick bites or through the PMDC committee formed to and GDP requirements. PPHI has a line ministry of the HEC, should contact with infected animal blood review the request of private medical DRAP approved warehouse fulfilling propose amendments to the or tissues during and immediately and dental institutions for increase and meeting the criteria of product committee in the light of 18th after slaughter. in their fee up to Rs1.3 million. storage conditions. It is the amendment. "Later we will discuss Public health workers along with After a detailed discussion, the responsibility of Area FDI and PPHI, and decide what to do with it," said animal herders, Veterinarians, Council however decided that a huge itself to maintain proper storage chairperson of the committee. Para-veterinary staff, livestock hike in the fee would not be allowed conditions, as laid out by DRAP when workers, animal merchants, as the PMDC was bound by the law issuing a license to the premises." JPMC management facing ... butchers and slaughterhouse to safeguard the interest of the DRAP Chief Dr Aslam Afghani while Continued from page 09 workers are at risk of the disease. students and people at large. speaking with the media has said buildings and they were using these There is currently no vaccine The meeting was informed that the that the federal authority awards the buildings for commercial purposes available for human and the only Supreme Court had taken suo moto license of drug storage and supply at Staff Colony. Unauthorized people way to reduce infection is by raising notice in 2010 of the high fee charged in the market to the company after a by privately-owned medical and legal procedure. He said, later on, have been using all the utilities of awareness. Public health advice dental colleges in the country and it is the responsibility of provincial the institutions free of cost. should focus on several aspects therefore, it was decided to fix the authority and relevant drug inspector Executive Director, Jinnah including wearing protective fee at Rs 550,000 per student with to check and report any negligence. Postgraduate Medical Center clothing (long sleeves, long an annual increase of seven per cent. The official was reluctant to comment (JPMC), Dr Seemin Jamali, said the trousers). In 2013, the fee went up to Rs on the worth and current condition administration had vacated several Wear light coloured clothing during 642,000. Now, the Council felt that of the medicines. houses and quarters from anti- visit to cattle market/mandi to allow the fee should not go beyond Rs0.8 A senior official at NHS wishing encroachment cell, law enforcement easy detection of ticks on the million mark. It asked its anonymity also said that DRAP and agencies and through the court in clothes and regularly examine subcommittee to negotiate the matter the official are at loggerheads with the past. She said a meeting will clothing and skin for ticks; if found, with private medical and dental each other because of some be held soon to launch crackdown remove them safely; and use colleges. departmental inquires. The official against encroachments, illegal approved repellents on clothing and The meeting was attended by Council said that it is FID's responsibility to occupants, electricity theft and other skin. members Professor Abid Farooqi, Dr take proper legal action by taking elements. Don't crush the ticks, wear gloves Sania Nishtar, Dr Asad Hafiz, Dr Amir samples and sending it to the lab to and other protective clothing while Hussain, Dr Muhammad Haroon, Dr confirm the expiry of medicine. The All stakeholders want ... handling animals or their tissues, Mussarat Hussain, Dr Taj ministry has been written a letter but Continued from page 12 notably during slaughtering, Muhammad, Dr Abdul Bari, Professor no legal action has been taken by for the entire health industry, butchering and culling procedures Eice Muhammad, Dr Imran Naseer, the inspector, said the official. including the pharmaceutical sector, in slaughterhouses or at home. Dr Mangal, Professor Musadaiq hospitals, diagnostic centres, health Avoid close physical contact with Khan, Professor Ijaz Hassan, Dr Senate body asks PMDC to ... varsities and relations institutions for CCHF-infected people, wear gloves Farukh Ijaz, Maj-Gen. (r) Dr Khaliq Continued from page 08 cooperating with each other, the and protective equipment when Naveed, Dr Khyaalur Rehman, Dr The committee also discussed the governor hoped that all these taking care of ill people, wash Feroz Jahangir, provincial health National TB Control Programme. Dr stakeholders would collaborate with hands frequently after caring or secretaries and PMDC registrar Dr Nasir Mehmood informed the each other in providing better visiting ill people and Insect Syed Azhar Ali Shah. committee that there were around healthcare facilities to people at an repellents are the most effective in 5.1 million registered patients of the affordable cost and work together to warding off ticks in human Draft of code of ethics ... disease in the country. "Till now, 155 eliminate disease and misery from populations. Continued from page 06 expert machines for its diagnoses our society. Safe burial practices should be for producing spurious and have been provided. Next year, 149 He also visited various stalls and implemented include spraying the substandard drugs and halted the more such machines will be inquired about the facilities and dead body with 1:10 liquid bleach production of 23 companies on similar provided," he said. He also said that services being offered by the health solution and then wrapping in charges, while heavy fines were more than 50 percent TB patients institutions. A large number of winding sheet. The winding sheet being imposed on the pharmaceutical were from Punjab and Sindh. doctors, health educators, should be sprayed with bleach sector, retailors, medical store owners and distributors for selling spurious pathologists, radiologists, solution, then the body be placed Senate panel slams HEC for ... pharmacists and experts from in a plastic bag, which should be drugs. Continued from page 08 "In 2015, DRAP imposed a combined various fields of the health sector sealed with adhesive tape. Disinfect to provinces after devolution. "The fine of Rs75 million, lodged hundreds are attending the exhibition and the transport vehicle and burn all issue of the HEC should be resolved of FIRs and sealed 33 showcasing their skills and products clothing of the deceased. through parliament," he at the event, which would continue pharmaceutical units for producing DUHS takes active part in ... substandard and spurious drugs. In recommended. till Thursday. 2016, we imposed a collective fine The HEC chief said after devolution, Organizers of the event, Ecommerce Continued from page 13 of Rs105 million and lodged over 600 a taskforce headed by the current Gateway Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd., said speech and language therapy, FIRs against producers of spurious Leader of Opposition Khursheed they had the support and physiotherapy and autism. The and substandard drugs." Shah, was agreed upon but it was collaboration of the federal and faculty of IPM&R also briefed about Similarly, for the first time in the history never notified and the CCI was provincial ministries of health, the facilities being provided at of Pakistan, doctors, pharmacists following up on it. Pakistan Pharmaceutical IPM&R, DUHS. and nurses had been penalized and Sassui Palijo called the CCI a Manufacturers Association, Pharma Dow University has also setup Riva criminal cases lodged against them dormant body, saying that under Bureau of Information and Statistics- water Stall which is easily available for giving fake and spurious drugs to Article 154 of the Constitution, it OICCI, Dow University of Health in the market at a very minimum cost. patients at their private clinics and should meet at least once in three Sciences, Surgical Instrument Furthermore, stall of Dow Medical workplaces, he added. months, "but it hardly happens". Manufacturers Association of College provides undergraduate and Senator Murtaza Wahab, a special Pakistan, Pakistan Society of postgraduate courses information DRAP ‘fails’ to seize supply ... invitee to the committee, said the Anesthesiologists, Friends of Cardiac being offered by the universities. Continued from page 07 HEC was overstepping its Surgery, Radiological Society of Subsequently the other stalls provide also written a letter to the health jurisdiction and must not intervene Pakistan and Pakistan Association comprehensive information about ministry claiming that Federal in provincial education matters. of Dermatologists for holding the facilities offer by the Dow University Inspector of Drugs Obaid Ali had The HEC chief, however, said they event. of Health Sciences.

14 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 OTSUKA HEALTH SESSION Practical theoretical training is important in medical practice: Dr Shahbaz Haider

MN Report be focused on paramedics medical practice. He said KARACHI - This was and other hospital staff. that electrolyte therapy is stated by Dr Shahbaz said that very important in surgical Dr Shahbaz Haider, scientific sessions should procedures. He said that Professor of Medicine be organized on a quarterly prick free infusion is very JPMC, on the occasion of basis. He said that in the important and should be a lucky draw on Jimmy's last 70 years, there is not continuing part of ethical affordable prices to the against hepatitis. Mr Khan Message "Don't prick IV a single hospital setup in medical practice. patients. He said that said that Savior Club bottles - it can spread largest city of country by Head of Sales Khalid Otsuka launches the new produced tremendous hepatitis". provisional government. He Muneer said that Otsuka compositions to fulfil the results and that Jimmy's Dr Shahbaz said that said that provisional has unique system for needs of the medical Message, "Don't prick IV medical practice is a government ignored controlling the quality community. bottles - it can spread process of continued education and health in the measures, and no one can Mr M Arshad Marketing hepatitis" is spreading learning, because new province. He said that now match quality with Otsuka. Manager said that Otsuka across the country. innovations occurr day by the provisional government Mr Muneer said that team founded the savior Lastly Dr Shahbaz Haider day. He said that house has set up the medical Otsuka is a Japan based club in early 2000, for performed the lucky draw officers and RMOs are on colleges and universities multinational creating awareness against and Dr Naqib Jan of Dir rotational duties and every and would be establishing pharmaceutical company hepatitis and other deadly lower Tameergra KPK was third month the batch is to teaching hospitals shortly. which produces IV infusion diseases. Today, more than declared the lucky winner be transferred to another Dr Haider said that training bottles worldwide. Mr 5000 doctors are the while 15 others also won department, so the learning is the most important factor Muneer said that Otsuka is members of Savior Club gift hampers. The session process should be on in medical practice and committed to providing and are playing their roles was concluded on a regular basis and also must nursing care is a part of qualitative products at and creating awareness cheerful note. Unhygienic meat seized in CHK

MN Report KARACHI - Dozens of kilo unhygienic meat was seized in Civil Hospital Karachi (CHK) by the dietician during a raid which is likely to supply different wards of hospital after preparation; sources at CHK. The dietician of Civil Hospital Karachi has conducted a raid in Kitchen Department of hospital in last evening and seized dozens of kilo mutton having foul smell which are possibly supplied to hundreds of admit patients after preparation. The meat was dumped silently to avoid any unpleasant situation or fear of leakage of news. Sources said an attempt to supply substandard mutton meat was foiled by a dietician during a raid in kitchen. The kitchen staff of hospital was busy in piecing the unhygienic meat when dietician visit the place and felt smell from mutton. They said under an agreement fresh mutton supply was the responsibility of rescue organization and they delivered 28 slaughtered goats out of which meats of seven found substandard. The hospital administration seized the meat and dumped the meat silently in fear of leakage of news. Medical Superintendent, Civil Hospital Karachi, Dr Tahir Aziz Sheikh, confirmed that mutton having foul smell was seized by dietician. He said after investigation it was found that no hospital official was involved in this matter and substandard mutton was supplied from said organization. He said an explanation letter would be issued to rescue organization for supply of unhygienic meat and said provision hygiene is the responsibility of hospital administration. It is pertinent to mention here that former medical superintendent of hospital had also suspended two dieticians over supply of unhygienic food to patients few months ago.

MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017 15 16 MEDICAL NEWS / September 1-14, 2017

Printed at Clifton Printers, BC-11, Block-9, Clifton-5, Karachi - 75600 and published by Hassan Mahmod for MEDICAL NEWS, KARACHI. Phones: 021-35834932 & 35833172, Founder Ayaz Mahmood.