JPMC inquiry reportedly confirms woman gave birth in washroom, recommends action over care lapses

KARACHI: An inquiry committee formed to investigate reports that a pregnant woman gave birth in a washroom at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) has reportedly concluded that the delivery occurred inside a hospital toilet and identified serious lapses in patient assessment and monitoring, according to media reports citing findings from the investigation.

The incident drew widespread public attention after videos and claims circulating on social media alleged that a woman delivered her baby in a washroom at Karachi's largest public-sector hospital. The allegations initially sparked criticism of patient care standards and emergency response systems within public healthcare facilities.

At the time, JPMC officials had rejected the claims, maintaining that the patient had received timely medical attention and that a normal delivery had taken place in the designated labour room under medical supervision. The hospital subsequently constituted a three-member inquiry committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Earlier story: JPMC rejects washroom delivery claim, forms inquiry committee amid viral allegations

According to reports citing the committee's findings, the woman arrived at the hospital's gynaecology ward at approximately 9:30 p.m. while in labour. The inquiry reportedly found that she did not receive a timely and comprehensive medical assessment upon arrival and that her condition was not adequately monitored despite presenting with labour pains.

The report allegedly noted that no ultrasound examination was performed and that the patient was advised to remain mobile rather than undergoing the level of clinical evaluation typically expected in such circumstances. Investigators reportedly concluded that deficiencies in patient assessment and monitoring contributed to the events that followed.

Media reports further state that the committee found the consultant and resident medical officer (RMO) responsible for overseeing the patient's care were not fulfilling their assigned responsibilities at the time of the incident.

As part of its investigation, the committee reportedly reviewed hospital records, examined CCTV footage, and recorded statements from the affected woman, her husband, the individual who assisted during the delivery, as well as doctors, nurses, and other hospital personnel.

The inquiry report has reportedly been submitted to the Executive Director of JPMC for further action.

According to reports, the committee has recommended that the RMO allegedly found responsible for negligence be referred to the Sindh Health Department for departmental proceedings. It has also proposed extending the training period of postgraduate doctors who were on duty at the time by three months in an effort to strengthen professional accountability and clinical supervision.

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In addition, the committee reportedly recommended a review of ward protocols, including procedures related to patient monitoring and management, to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

The case has reignited concerns regarding maternal healthcare services, emergency obstetric care, patient safety, and accountability mechanisms within public hospitals. Healthcare experts have consistently emphasized that timely assessment, continuous monitoring, and adherence to established clinical protocols are essential components of safe maternity care, particularly in high-volume public healthcare facilities.

The incident also highlights broader challenges facing Pakistan's public health system, including overcrowding, workforce pressures, and the need for stronger quality assurance measures in emergency and maternity services.

As of publication, the inquiry report has not been officially released to the public. Medical News Pakistan has not independently reviewed the report, and details regarding its findings are based on information reported by multiple media outlets citing sources familiar with the investigation.

Hospital authorities and the Sindh Health Department have yet to publicly announce whether the recommendations contained in the reported findings will be formally implemented.

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