Sindh Provincial Ombudsman Mohammad Sohail Rajput has ordered an urgent investigation and a series of corrective measures after 16 more children were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS at Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital.
The families raised concerns about medicines, treatment costs and hospital administration during a hearing chaired by Rajput and attended by senior officials of the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution, hospital administrators and parents of affected children.
The families alleged that essential medicines were not always available, hospital officials had failed to provide adequate cooperation and reimbursement of treatment expenses had been delayed.
Rajput criticised the hospital’s performance and called for immediate steps to improve medical and administrative services.
He directed authorities to explore the deputation of doctors from Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital for six months, according to the hospital’s requirements.
He also ordered the hospital administration to ensure uninterrupted supplies of medicines, nutritional supplements and other essential items needed by the affected children.
The ombudsman instructed authorities to identify a reputable audit firm within two weeks to conduct a comprehensive audit of the hospital’s financial and administrative affairs.
He said qualified medical and administrative professionals should be brought in where necessary to improve management and healthcare delivery.
Rajput also directed the director general of labour to take steps for the reinstatement of workers who lost their jobs while caring for their affected children.
He ordered compensation for families who lost children and called for comprehensive rehabilitation services for children living with HIV/AIDS.
The ombudsman further directed the appointment of qualified psychologists to provide counselling and psychosocial support to the affected children and their families.
He also called for a public awareness campaign through print, electronic and social media on HIV/AIDS diagnosis, treatment, prevention and the importance of timely medical care.
The hearing was adjourned for two weeks, with authorities directed to take immediate action on the issues raised and report progress.
The post Action Ordered Against HIV Outbreak at Karachi Hospital appeared first on ProPakistani.
