JPMC issues explanations to 40 doctors for absence during duty hours
KARACHI: The administration of Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) has issued explanations to 40 doctors following their absence during official duty hours, in a move aimed at addressing growing concerns over doctor absenteeism in public hospitals.
According to hospital sources, Executive Director Dr Shahid Rasool conducted a surprise inspection at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday and discovered that a large number of doctors, including senior professors and departmental heads, were missing from their designated wards and clinics despite being scheduled for the 8 a.m. shift.
Absenteeism leaves patients without care
Patients visiting JPMC early in the morning were reportedly left unattended, forced to move from ward to ward in search of medical care. Departments such as Orthopaedics, Neurosurgery, Medical ICU, Ward 23, as well as the Dental and ENT OPDs, were among those where many staff members were found absent.
The situation once again highlights the long-standing issue of absenteeism in government hospitals, which directly affects patient care and contributes to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Administrative accountability initiated
Taking immediate action, Dr Shahid Rasool issued formal explanation notices to 40 doctors for failing to report to duty on time. The administration has also warned that disciplinary measures will be taken against repeat offenders to ensure accountability and uphold hospital discipline.
Hospital officials emphasized that strict attendance monitoring systems are being reintroduced to prevent negligence and ensure that doctors remain available during their scheduled shifts.
The JPMC administration reiterated its commitment to improving healthcare delivery and maintaining discipline, punctuality, and patient-centered service across all departments.
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