LAHORE: Under the vision of the prime minister, the Punjab health department has formally opened first Mehman Khana for attendants of patients at Jinnah Hospital.

Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid inaugurated the facility here on Tuesday, says a handout.

She also visited the Mehman Khana where around 200 people from far-flung areas can stay to fight frost and fog. Along with shelter, food will also be served at the Mehman Khana.

“This is for the first time that any government has thought about relatives of patients,” said an attendant of a patient.

The minister directed Medical Superintendent Dr. Asim Hameed to visit the Mehman Khana on a daily basis for better service delivery.

In a media talk, Dr. Yasmin Rashid said five more Mehman Khanas each at Lahore General Hospital, Services Hospital, Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Mayo Hospital and Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi, would be set up. “This is a gift from PM Imran Khan for the nation on this new year.”

According to a TV channel, mattress given to attendants were removed soon after the minister left the hospital premises.

Published in Dawn, January 2nd, 2019