PAKPATTAN — The recent deaths of around 20 newborns at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital in Pakpattan have left families and officials deeply troubled. A government-ordered internal inquiry has now concluded, but critics say key questions remain unanswered.
Inquiry Highlights
- A departmental team investigated deaths that occurred over several weeks in the neonatal unit, reviewing patient records, staffing rosters, and equipment logs.
- Their preliminary findings pointed to gaps in staff coverage, inconsistent monitoring of vital signs, and unsettled issues with automated incubator alarms.
- However, the investigation did not assign responsibility or provide a clear timeline for corrective measures.
Remaining Concerns
- Accountability gaps: Families report that doctors and nurses involved in the cases have not been interviewed, nor have disciplinary actions been announced.
- Safety fears: Parents say many of the affected babies died shortly after birth, raising concerns about the availability of trained neonatal staff and emergency care overnight.
- Transparency issues: The inquiry’s findings were shared privately with health authorities, with no public disclosure or direct communication with the families.
Official and Public Reaction
- The Punjab Health Department said it is considering further investigations and has pledged to introduce “immediate interventions” once technical deficiencies are confirmed.
- Community leaders and human rights advocates are calling for a fully independent probe, better data on neonatal mortality, and clear information on how hospital care will be improved.
Path Forward
Stakeholders say the next steps must include:
- An independent audit of staffing and equipment in neonatal wards across the region.
- Full disclosure of the internal findings alongside a plan for accountability.
- A commitment to compulsory training, emergency protocols, and upgraded monitoring tools to prevent similar tragedies.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.
