Islamabad: The Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination convened at Parliament House in Islamabad to address critical issues, including the review of MDCAT 2026, medical college fee regulations, and the implementation of recommendations following the PIMS Mother and Child Hospital nursery fire incident.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the meeting, chaired by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA, involved a comprehensive evaluation of the MDCAT 2026 examination. Vice Chancellors of the conducting universities assured the committee that no significant irregularities were found in the examination process, aside from minor complaints regarding question papers and answer keys, which have been resolved. The committee endorsed the validity of the MDCAT 2026 results and advocated for the reduction of the exam’s result validity from three years to one, starting next academic year, to alleviate the issue of vacant seats in medical and dental colleges.
Addressing the regulation of medical college fees, the committee directed the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) to intensify its regulatory oversight, particularly targeting institutions charging fees beyond the approved limits. The committee requested a detailed list of institutions that have been granted fee enhancements and called for punitive measures against those imposing unauthorized fees or charges.
In response to the PIMS Mother and Child Hospital nursery fire incident, the committee reviewed ongoing reforms, with the Ministry reporting that work on 34 recommendations is being regularly assessed at the Prime Minister’s level. The committee also sought updates on the expansion of Polyclinic Hospital, emphasizing timely completion of the project.
The meeting also addressed issues faced by doctors in private practice concerning the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), with plans to involve FBR in the next session for a detailed discussion. The Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) was urged to expedite its operational processes and enhance regulatory oversight of private clinics and laboratories. Additional discussions included the registration of aesthetic physicians and the draft Pharmacy Council Bill, which the committee expects to review in its next meeting.
The session was attended by several Members of the National Assembly (MNA), the Minister for National Health Services, and senior officials from the Ministry of NHSR&C. The committee acknowledged the minister’s active participation and stressed the significance of consistent leadership for effective implementation of its recommendations.