Patients running out of patience : Doctor’s protest hits 15 days

LAHORE: Lahore’s government hospitals are mired in an escalating crisis as the strike by young doctors stretches into its fifteenth day, leaving the Out-Patient Departments (OPDs) paralysed.

This sustained protest was initially sparked by the termination and transfer of three medical professionals from a city hospital, coupled with the alleged murder of another doctor in Gujrat city. In a united front, young doctors have not only brought services in OPDs of Lahore’s government hospitals to a standstill but have also disrupted operations in indoor wards, compounding the challenges faced by patients and their attendants.

Adding to the chaos, the slip counters at major hospitals, including Mayo, Jinnah, General, Services, and Gangaram Hospital, have remained closed throughout this period. This exacerbates the plight of those seeking medical attention, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

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The Young Doctors Association (YDA) has issued a stern warning, asserting their intent to escalate the strike across Punjab if their demands are not met. The prolonged strike has put significant financial strain on the healthcare system, raising concerns about the potential closure of six hospitals, further amplifying the burden on an already beleaguered system.

As the strike enters its fifteenth day, thousands of patients continue to grapple with daily difficulties, prompting fervent appeals to doctors not to penalize patients and their attendants for the ongoing dispute. The healthcare system in Lahore remains paralyzed, leaving patients in a state of distress and uncertainty regarding when essential medical services will be fully restored. The urgency for a resolution intensifies as the impasse continues to cast a prolonged shadow over the city’s healthcare landscape.