Islamabad – Patients in urgent need of kidney transplants have been left in limbo as the Kidney Transplant Unit at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has remained non-functional for nearly a year, the Senate Standing Committee on Government Assurances was informed. The prolonged suspension of services at one of the country’s leading public hospitals has sparked concerns over the accessibility of life-saving medical care.
During a recent committee meeting chaired by Senator Abdul Shakoor Khan, officials from the Ministry of National Health Services revealed that while the physical infrastructure for kidney transplants is fully in place at PIMS, the unit has been unable to operate due to the retirement and departure of senior specialist doctors and consultants. The absence of trained medical personnel has left patients without essential treatment.
The health ministry explained that filling these critical positions requires approval and recruitment through the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC). However, delays on the part of the commission have prolonged the inactivity of the transplant unit. The Senate panel has now directed FPSC representatives to appear in the next session to explain the reasons behind the delay and outline a timeline for resolution.
Kidney transplants often represent the only hope for patients suffering from end-stage renal disease. With the PIMS unit inactive, many patients are forced to seek costly alternatives in private hospitals or even abroad, placing additional financial and emotional burdens on families. Experts and healthcare advocates stress that restoring the unit’s functionality is an urgent public health priority.
Beyond the kidney unit, the Senate committee also reviewed other systemic gaps in public hospitals and regulatory bodies. However, the spotlight remained on PIMS, where long waiting lists and critical patient needs have amplified concerns over the federal government’s handling of healthcare services. Senators emphasized that immediate action is needed to fill specialist vacancies and resume operations without further delay.
The panel also called for a detailed plan from both the health ministry and FPSC, highlighting the necessity for clear timelines and accountability to prevent further disruptions in essential medical services. The Senate’s warnings underscore the growing impatience in Parliament over delays in improving healthcare delivery across the country.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.