PAMI President Prof. Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman calls for urgent reforms in healthcare policies

Lahore (Web Desk): Pakistan Association of Medical and Dental Institutions (PAMI) President Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman has urged the pressing need to reform policies that are currently undermining the medical sector.

Addressing at a distinguished ceremony organized by PAMI, he criticised the central induction system, explaining that although it claims to uphold merit, it has actually suppressed genuine talent.

President Professor Dr. Chaudhry Abdul Rehman stressed that the government lacks both legal and ethical authority to interfere in admissions to private institutions.

Highlighting the country’s healthcare spending, he noted that Pakistan allocates only about 2% of its budget to health, far below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended 6%, while private hospitals continue to provide free care to patients across 40,000 beds.

He urged the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) to take a more compassionate, nurturing approach toward medical professionals, similar to the model followed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP).

Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir praised Dr. Abdul Rehman’s passion, emphasizing that the progress of the healthcare sector relies not on ministers or bureaucrats, but on the dedication of committed professionals.

Meanwhile, the ceremony also honored outstanding contributors to medicine with Lifetime Achievement Awards and commemorative mementos.

Distinguished personalities including Professor Khalid Masood Gondal and Professor Mahmood Ayaz attended the event highlighting the indispensable role of the private sector in supporting healthcare in Pakistan.