QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has taken strict action against the absenteeism of healthcare staff, especially female doctors, at the Bolan Medical College (BMC) Hospital, ordering the immediate suspension of all such absent doctors, nurses and support staff, alongside initiating legal proceedings against them.

The directive came during the chief minister’s surprise visit on Wednesday, during which he found a significant number of medical personnel absent from their posts.

He also expressed his dissatisfaction with the hospital’s hygiene standards and highlighted the issue of malfunctioning medical equipment. He set a deadline of three days for the repair of all defective machinery.

Mr Bugti also emphasised the importance of providing comprehensive medical tests and treatments within a single facility, stressing that transferring patients from one hospital to another for diagnostic services should be stopped.

During his visit, the chief minister spoke with patient attendants and encouraged medical professionals who display commitment and diligence in their duties.

Mt Bugti instructed the provincial health secretary to transfer the derelict doctors and medical staff to remote areas and directed him to give a detailed briefing at the CM Secretariat today (Thu­r­sday).

Published in Dawn, March 14th, 2024