The Punjab Institute of Cardiology in Lahore is grappling with a critical shortage of beds, forcing patients to receive treatment in hospital corridors and, in some instances, on footpaths outside the building.
The most acute challenges are faced in the emergency department, where the scarcity of beds has resulted in patients being treated in wheelchairs and receiving intravenous drips while positioned on footpaths.
A video procured by ARY News on Facebook highlighted the severe conditions under which patients receive care on footpaths.
Despite assurances from the provincial government regarding enhancements in healthcare facilities, hospital sources report that no additional beds have been allocated to the emergency department. This ongoing issue is attributed to a lack of engagement from the health department, contributing to insufficient space to accommodate patient needs effectively.
According to hospital sources, the Punjab Institute of Cardiology Medical Superintendent appears unaware of the bed shortage. Furthermore, while recent renovations at the hospital have focused on aesthetic improvements, they have not addressed the critical need to increase the number of beds, leaving the core issue of patient accommodation unresolved.
