PMDC seeks explanation over filming patients during procedure at Lahore’s Lady Willingdon Hospital

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) on Monday issued formal notices to the administration of Lahore's Lady Willingdon Hospital following reports of an alleged incident in which patients were filmed during surgical procedures. The video, recorded during two separate caesarean operations, appeared to show medical teams treating the procedures as a competition, with staff racing to complete surgeries faster than their colleagues. The footage sparked widespread public outrage, highlighting the need for stricter supervision and accountability in public hospitals. Following the public outcry, the Punjab government suspended 11 staff members, including the medical superintendent and the head of the gynaecology department of the hospital. The PMDC issued formal notices today to both the hospital administration and the doctors allegedly involved in recording and sharing the video. The council directed that all relevant individuals provide a detailed explanation, outlining their roles and the circumstances surrounding the incident. "Recording patients without consent, especially in sensitive clinical settings such as operating theatres, constitutes a grave breach of professional ethics and may infringe on patient rights and confidentiality," the PMDC stated. The council sought a comprehensive report, including the identification of those involved in filming and distributing the footage, the consent protocols followed before recording and any disciplinary actions taken by the hospital management. Upon receiving the responses, the PMDC will review the matter and take appropriate regulatory action, including initiating disciplinary proceedings against the doctors involved. "The PMDC maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards violations of ethical standards. We will not tolerate any breaches of the code of ethics, particularly those that undermine patient confidentiality and dignity. Strict action will be taken against those responsible, in accordance with the law," PMDC said. PMDC President Dr Rizwan Taj said such behaviour was unacceptable and would be dealt with firmly under the relevant regulatory framework.

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