ISLAMABAD: As the number of Covid-19 cases started increasing again, doctors at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) have urged the hospital management to close outpatient departments (OPDs).

A statement issued by the doctors said due to the recent increase in the cases, all healthcare workers were at risk and needed proper arrangements.

“There is lack of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in all federal hospitals’ OPDs, emergencies and wards which is one of the key factors in increasing the numbers of Covid-19 positive patients,” it stated.

Young Consultants Association Pakistan Chairman Dr Asfandyar Khan told Dawn that steps should be taken to stop the spread of the virus.

“OPDs should be closed and elective surgeries should be stopped, Covid-19 patients should be shifted to isolations outside the hospital, to decrease chances of spread of the deadly virus. We suggest that patients should be shifted to Covid-19 specific hospital at the National Institute of Health.”

Dr Khan said personal protective equipment, including N-95 masks, face shield, should be provided to all healthcare workers in the hospital.

Published in Dawn, October 30th, 2020