ISLAMABAD: Postgraduate residents at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) held a protest demanding a pay raise, which, according to them, has not been increased since February 2020.

They also demanded resolution of residential issues, improved hospital security, paid house jobs for all and better patient care.

They claimed that despite repeated applications to Pims Executive Director Dr Rana Imran Sikander and the Ministry of Health, their concerns had been ignored, prompting them to take action.

The protest, which lasted for an hour and a half, saw participation from all doctors. After the protest was called off, the executive director met with the stakeholders and assured them that he would take up the matter with the health ministry within three days and personally follow up on it.

The protesters’ demands included a salary increase for postgraduate residents and house officers, which has been pending since 2020. They also claimed that 70 per cent of residents lacked hostel facilities.

They demanded a health risk allowance along with a health insurance policy.

Protesters said they faced long duty hours without proper facilities and had to attend evening outpatient departments (OPDs) without any additional pay.

They highlighted a shortage of security staff, stating that only one security personnel was deployed for every two wards.

They also demanded free treatment for the parents and families of residents and an increase in the number of resident slots to reduce overcrowding in OPDs. Despite Pims being the largest hospital in the country, they said there were no pick-and-drop facilities for doctors.

They urged authorities to ensure better care and attention for patients, stressing that medical services should not be disrupted due to budget constraints, shortage of medical professionals, or logistical issues.

They also demanded the availability of free medicines, resolution of bed and staff shortages, and the provision of rest and sleep areas for patient attendants.

The executive director’s assurance brought a temporary reprieve, with the protesters agreeing to halt their agitation.

Published in Dawn, July 2nd, 2025