Punjab healthcare crisis: Dental community urges immediate dialogue amid ongoing doctors' strike

LAHORE: The healthcare system in Punjab is currently under significant strain due to ongoing strikes by the Young Doctors Association (YDA) and paramedical staff. In response, the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) Punjab and PDA Lahore Cabinet have issued a joint statement expressing deep concern and urging immediate government intervention to address the crisis and ensure uninterrupted patient care.​

Understanding the crisis

The strikes stem from longstanding issues faced by healthcare professionals, including:

• Service structure concerns: Demands for a clear and fair career progression pathway.​
• Job security: Calls for permanent positions and protection against arbitrary dismissals.​
• Working conditions: Need for improved facilities, adequate staffing, and safe working environments.​

These unresolved issues have led to widespread protests, affecting the delivery of healthcare services across the province.​

PDA's appeal

In their joint statement, PDA Punjab President Prof. Qasim Saeed and PDA Lahore President Dr. Tahir Mahmood emphasized the critical role of healthcare workers and the urgency of addressing their legitimate concerns. They appealed to the Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab to:​

• Initiate immediate dialogue: Engage with representatives of the doctors and paramedical staff to understand and resolve their issues.​
• Prioritize patient care: Ensure that the ongoing crisis does not compromise the health and well-being of patients.​
• Adopt a reform-driven approach: Implement systemic changes to prevent future disruptions in healthcare services.​

Impact on healthcare services

The strikes have led to significant disruptions in medical services, with reports indicating:​

• Closure of outpatient departments (OPDs): Patients are unable to access routine medical consultations.​
• Delays in emergency care: Emergency services are overwhelmed, leading to longer wait times and compromised patient outcomes.​
• Postponement of surgeries: Elective procedures are being rescheduled, causing distress among patients.​

These disruptions underscore the urgent need for a resolution to restore normalcy in healthcare institutions.​

The way forward

To address the crisis effectively, the following steps are recommended:​

• Constructive engagement: Open and honest discussions between the government and healthcare representatives.​
• Policy reforms: Review and revise policies related to service structures, job security, and working conditions.​
• Monitoring and evaluation: Establish mechanisms to monitor the implementation of agreed-upon reforms.​

By taking these steps, the government can demonstrate its commitment to supporting healthcare professionals and safeguarding patient care.​

Conclusion

The ongoing strikes by the YDA and paramedical staff highlight systemic issues within Punjab's healthcare system. The PDA's appeal for immediate dialogue and reform serves as a crucial reminder of the need to prioritize the well-being of both healthcare workers and patients. Swift and decisive action by the government is essential to resolve the crisis and ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services across the province.