Health adviser chairs conference: Medical superintendents asked to update records

PESHAWAR: The third medical superintendents conference was held under the chairmanship of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Adviser, Ihtesham Ali.

The conference was attended by Medical Superintendents from across the province, Secretary of Health Shahidullah, Director General of Health Dr. Muhammad Saleem, Additional DGs, various departmental directors, and Dr. Ijaz, Director of the Independent Monitoring Unit (IMU).

The agenda included a comprehensive review of the performance of MSs and the tasks assigned in the previous meeting. Dr Ijaz briefed the participants on the progress made on the decisions and responsibilities given during the last conference.

Taking notice of absenteeism among medical staff, especially doctors, the adviser directed that a list of persistently absent doctors be submitted to his office before the next MS conference. He warned that failure to recommend disciplinary action to relevant authorities would result in the end of the MS’s concerned responsibilities.

The advisor instructed all MSs to update their records on the Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS).He announced that from now on, all matters such as No Objection Certificates (NOCs), arrivals, and charge relinquishments would be processed through the online system.

Furthermore, he stated that more powers would be delegated to the offices of Regional DGs to ensure they take full administrative control of their respective regions. Secretary of Health Shahidullah emphasized the activation of unused medical equipment lying in hospitals.

He instructed that if any equipment is not in use, it should be sent back so it can be utilised in hospitals where it is needed. He added that weak performance would not only lead to transfers but also to full accountability. The secretary directed all MSs to ensure the timely procurement of medicines. He said drugs that have been cleared by the Drug Testing Laboratory should be made available in hospitals without delay.He stressed the importance of proper use of medical equipment, regular staff attendance, and frequent visits to all departments of their hospitals.