Karachi, Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh, Justice (R) Maqbool Baqar, has emphasized the pressing challenge of an imbalanced ratio of doctors to paramedics in Pakistan. He highlighted the issue during the launch of a Skill Lab for Pediatric & Neonatal Care Technician Course at the College of Nursing, Kohi Goth, Malir. The event was attended by dignitaries including Prof. Tipu Sultan, Chairman of Atia & Zafar Foundation and Charitable Trust, and UNICEF Sindh Field Office Chief Mr. Prem Bahadur Chand.
According to Sindh Chief Minister House, the current trend in Pakistan’s healthcare sector of producing more doctors in comparison to nurses, midwives, LHVs, and medical technicians is a significant concern. He remarked that the establishment of the College of Nursing and the introduction of the technician course are crucial steps towards addressing this disparity. Justice Baqar expressed his hope that the institution would produce quality pediatric and neonatal technicians, thereby contributing to the reduction of child and newborn mortality in the region.
Highlighting the impact of this imbalance, Justice Baqar pointed out that Pakistan has one of the highest child mortality rates in the world, with newborn mortality being a significant contributor. He stressed that many of these deaths could be prevented with appropriate and timely healthcare measures. The new Skill Lab and technician course, supported by UNICEF, are part of the Sindh government’s commitment to improving healthcare facilities and addressing these critical challenges.
Prof. Tipu Sultan, speaking at the event, noted the hospital’s role in providing free treatment to women and children, with an average of 600 deliveries per month. He also mentioned that the hospital offers free training in nursing and other technical healthcare courses. During his visit, the Chief Minister interacted with the training nurses and technicians, underscoring his support for initiatives aimed at enhancing the healthcare workforce and the overall quality of health services in Sindh.