PMDC investigates death of Frontier Medical College student

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has initiated a formal inquiry following the tragic death of Mr. Abuzar Ghafari, a second-year BDS student at Frontier Medical College, Abbottabad. The incident has raised serious concerns regarding the adequacy of medical assistance provided during an emergency. Reports suggest that the delay in medical intervention may have contributed to the student’s unfortunate passing.

PMDC’s response to the tragic incident

In a statement, the President of PMDC expressed deep sorrow over Mr. Ghafari’s passing and offered condolences to his family and friends. "This is an irreplaceable loss of a promising young individual who was destined to make significant contributions to the medical field," the President said.

The PMDC has taken swift action by ordering an inquiry into the allegations of medical negligence. The college administration, including the Principal and Medical Superintendent, has been given a seven-day deadline to submit a comprehensive report explaining the events surrounding the incident.

The PM&DC President also emphasized the need for higher standards of care, stating, "Medical and dental students are the cream of our nation, and we must provide not only education but also the highest standards of care and timely assistance."

Health and safety protocols under scrutiny

The incident has raised significant questions about the health and safety protocols in place at Frontier Medical College and other medical institutions across Pakistan. The PM&DC President highlighted the importance of reviewing and strengthening health and safety measures at medical and dental colleges to prevent such tragic occurrences in the future.

"The well-being of our students must be safeguarded at all costs," the President stressed. "We owe it to our future doctors and dentists to provide a safe learning environment, both academically and physically."

Consequences for non-compliance

PMDC has made it clear that any failure by Frontier Medical College to comply with the investigation and submit the requested report within the stipulated timeframe could lead to severe consequences. The college could face stringent action under the PM&DC Act, 2022, which includes penalties and possible revocation of its operational license.

Nationwide call for review of health and safety protocols

In addition to the inquiry into the specific incident, the PMDC has instructed all medical and dental colleges in Pakistan to review and amend their health and safety protocols. This directive aims to ensure that no such incidents occur in the future and that medical institutions prioritize student safety and well-being.

The PMDC President called on all medical colleges to adopt best practices in emergency response and student healthcare. "It is our responsibility to safeguard the well-being of our students and uphold the integrity of medical education in Pakistan," he concluded.