CPSP appreciates concerns expressed by Standing Committee on NHSR&C

Islamabad: The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) has appreciated the concerns expressed by the Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHSR&C) in a meeting that discussed a wide range of pressing issues related to healthcare governance, medical education and employees’ rights.

The meeting held on Friday under the Chairmanship of MNA Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani expressed concern over the treatment of postgraduate medical trainees, particularly those enrolled in FCPS and MCPS programs at institutions like Isra University. It was revealed that many trainees were working without stipends, despite clear government policies mandating paid training. The Committee reiterated that honorary training was not allowed and directed that all trainees be paid stipends in accordance with Federal and Provincial standards.

Senior Vice President at CPSP Professor Dr. Muhammad Shoaib Shafi expressed to ‘The News’ on Saturday that the CPSP supports the training of doctors during FCPS and MCPS with stipends. “The issue needs to be highlighted and all postgraduate trainees must be given stipends,” he said.

The Standing Committee also stated that Isra University was specifically instructed to submit a written commitment to pay stipends to all trainees and provide records of stipend disbursements for the past three months. The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) supported the Committee’s stance and emphasized the need for compliance across all training institutions. The Committee warned that failure to comply would result in regulatory consequences, including suspension of institutional registration.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders from regulatory bodies, medical institutions and the Ministry of Health to address ongoing challenges and ensure timely implementation of the Committee’s recommendations.