Pakistan Information Commission mandates release of hospital negligence report

The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) has taken a significant step towards transparency by instructing the release of an inquiry report concerning alleged negligence and mistreatment of doctors at a prominent private medical facility in Rawalpindi. This decision follows a complaint filed by Zahoor Ahmed, a resident of Gujjar Khan, Rawalpindi, who accused the hospital's doctors of negligence resulting in the tragic death of his 26-year-old son.

The Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) initially declined to share the inquiry report, citing confidentiality under the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017. However, after a citizen named Nadeem Umer sought information on the report's status and was denied by IHRA, the matter was escalated to the PIC for resolution.

During the proceedings, IHRA argued that the information was confidential under section 7(h) of the Act, pertaining to personal treatment records. Nevertheless, the PIC invoked section 5 of the Act, which mandates the proactive publication of finalized inquiry reports by public bodies, emphasizing the significance of transparency and accountability in matters concerning public health and safety.

As a result, the Commission directed the CEO of IHRA to furnish certified copies of the inquiry report to both the appellant and the Commission within ten days. A follow-up hearing is scheduled for June 16, 2024, to ensure compliance with the directive. This decision highlights the PIC's commitment to transparency and holding public bodies accountable, particularly in cases involving public health and safety.

The Pakistan Information Commission's directive to disclose the hospital negligence inquiry report sets a precedent for transparency and accountability in healthcare matters. By prioritizing public access to information and ensuring oversight in critical situations, the Commission reinforces the importance of transparency and accountability in safeguarding public health and safety.