Punjab government introduces body cameras in hospitals to enhance transparency
LAHORE: The Punjab government has taken a significant step toward strengthening transparency and accountability in public healthcare facilities by procuring body cameras for hospital staff, marking a new phase in administrative oversight within government hospitals across the province.
According to official sources, the provincial government had earlier approved the use of body cameras in hospitals, and the procurement process has now moved forward, though with a scaled-down implementation plan. In the first phase, pharmacists, storekeepers, and security supervisors will be required to wear body cameras, while nursing staff have been excluded from the rollout at this stage.
Major hospitals begin procurement
Several leading public-sector hospitals in Lahore have already completed the purchase of body cameras. Sir Ganga Ram Hospital has procured 25 devices, Jinnah Hospital 35, Lahore General Hospital 25, Services Hospital 20, and Children’s Hospital more than 25 body cameras. Mayo Hospital is expected to initiate procurement following approval from its board.
Hospital officials confirmed that the initiative is part of a broader effort to document interactions, monitor operational practices, and reduce complaints related to mismanagement and malpractice in government healthcare facilities.
Cost considerations shape procurement decisions
Sources revealed that hospital administrations opted for body cameras with a one-day backup capacity rather than higher-end devices offering 30-day backup storage. A body camera with extended 30-day backup reportedly costs around Rs150,000, while a one-day backup device is priced at approximately Rs7,000.
Despite the limited backup capacity, hospital authorities stated that recorded footage will be preserved for one month before being deleted, ensuring sufficient time for review in case of complaints or inquiries.
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Administrations reportedly avoided more expensive equipment due to concerns over financial audits and budget scrutiny, choosing cost-effective solutions that meet basic monitoring requirements.
Rising demand fuels black market activity
Officials also noted that the surge in demand for body cameras has led to their appearance in the black market, with devices previously available for around Rs7,000 now being sold for up to Rs10,000. The unexpected price hike reflects supply constraints as multiple hospitals place bulk orders simultaneously.
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A step toward accountability in public healthcare
The body camera initiative is aimed at curbing malpractice, improving service delivery, and enhancing public trust in government hospitals. While the initial rollout is limited in scope, officials suggest the program may be expanded based on operational outcomes and administrative feedback.
Healthcare observers view the move as a notable, though cautious, attempt to introduce real-time accountability mechanisms in a public health system often criticized for lack of transparency.
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