Government Plans to Outsource PIMS and Transfer Hospital Control

In a significant move aimed at improving healthcare services in the capital, the federal government of Pakistan has announced plans to transfer the administrative control of several key hospitals in Islamabad to the district administration. This decision, revealed on Wednesday, includes the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMs), the Federal General Hospital, the National Rehabilitation Center, and the Poly Clinic. The initiative also extends to the District Health Office, along with basic and rural health centers, which will also be handed over to the district authorities.

The transfer of control is expected to be completed within a year, with the Ministry of Health working closely with the Islamabad administration to develop a detailed plan for this transition. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for the residents of Islamabad.

In addition to the transfer of administrative control, there are reports that the Ministry of Health is preparing to outsource the diagnostic lab of PIMs, which is recognized as the largest government hospital in the country. The government is considering a Public-Private Partnership model for managing PIMs, which would involve a phased approach to outsourcing various services. In the first phase, the Department of Radiology and Laboratory Services at PIMs will be outsourced, with plans to privatize additional sectors in the following phases.

Sources indicate that a decision regarding the utilization of PIMS’ substantial land assets, which are valued in the trillions, is expected to be made in the third phase of this initiative. This aspect raises important questions about the future of these valuable resources and how they will be managed to benefit the public.

As the government moves forward with these plans, it is crucial for the public to stay informed and engaged. The success of such initiatives often hinges on transparency and community involvement. By ensuring that the voices of the citizens are heard, the government can better tailor its healthcare strategies to meet the needs of the population. Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare system that is not only efficient but also accessible to all, ensuring that every citizen receives the care they deserve.