ISLAMABAD: “Ensuring the health and safety of athletes and attendees at the Quaid-i-Azam Interprovincial Games 2024 is our commitment to community well-being,” said CEO of Maroof International Hospital (MIH) Haroon Naseer.

Partnering with the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) as the official healthcare partner, MIH provided medical care and prevented long-term complications during the event, which returned after a seven-year hiatus.

According to a statement, Mr Naseer said around 30pc of athletes experience injuries during competitive events according to global reports.

“MIH took proactive measures to address this by establishing a dedicated First Aid Medical Camp at Jinnah Stadium from Dec 14th to 19th. The camp comprising physiotherapists, senior dentists, medical officers and a skilled team of paramedics.

Their on-ground presence ensured the safety and well-being of athletes and attendees throughout the event, he said.

Speaking on the occasion CEO of Maroof International Hospital (MIH) Haroon Naseer expressed his appreciation for DG Pakistan Sports Board Yasir Pirzada, stating, “We deeply value his leadership in organising the games and his emphasis on integrating healthcare into such large-scale events, underscoring the critical role of medical care in ensuring the safety of all involved.”

Corporate Head of the hospital Ms Rubina Afzal emphasised the importance of sports medicine, adding, “Our team is equipped to handle on-ground emergencies, ensuring every game is safer and more enjoyable for all participants.”

In addition to its efforts at the games, hospital played a pivotal role in the polio eradication campaign launched in collaboration with the Deputy Commissioner Office Islamabad. The medical team participated in vaccinating children, contributing to the fight against polio in Pakistan, one of the last two countries where the disease remains endemic.

Published in Dawn, December 19th, 2024