Senate Calls for Price Benchmarking in Private Healthcare Labs to Ensure Fair Practices

Senate Pushes for Price Benchmark in Private Healthcare Labs

The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (NHSRC) has taken a significant step to regulate the pricing of laboratory tests in private healthcare facilities. The committee has recommended setting a price benchmark and mandating the display of test costs in all private labs. This initiative aims to promote transparency and protect patients from unfair pricing practices.

Addressing MDCAT Paper Leak and Education Reforms

During a recent meeting chaired by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chisti, the committee also addressed the alarming issue of the MDCAT (Medical and Dental College Admission Test) paper leak. The forensic investigation by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) confirmed that the paper was leaked 13 hours before the scheduled exam, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the testing process.

Senator Chisti highlighted the unusual performance of some students with modest academic records who achieved near-perfect MDCAT scores. To combat such irregularities, the committee directed the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) to implement IT-based testing systems and develop a public question bank. This would eliminate cheating opportunities and ensure the inclusion of syllabus-compliant content.

Call for Transparency in Lab Test Pricing

Senator Mohsin Aziz emphasized the urgent need to regulate pricing disparities in private laboratory tests. The committee discussed the wide variations in the cost of basic tests, such as lipid profiles ranging from Rs2,400 to Rs2,600 and urine tests from Rs550 to Rs950.

Senator Anusha Rahman pointed out that enforcing transparent pricing policies would not only protect consumers but also foster fair competition in the healthcare sector.

Workplace Reforms at PIMS

The committee also focused on workplace grievances within the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). Twenty-six doctors lodged complaints against the Executive Director, citing allegations of harassment, racism, nepotism, and misuse of authority. The committee directed the Ministry of NHSRC to form an investigative panel for an unbiased review of these claims.

The Executive Director denied the allegations, but the committee stressed the importance of a prompt and impartial inquiry to address the doctors’ concerns.

Availability of CT Scan Injections

Concerns over the alleged black marketing of contrast injections for CT scans were also discussed. Officials assured the committee that adequate supplies are available and pledged to monitor the issue closely.

The absence of the Pakistan Nursing Council president was noted, and directives were issued for her mandatory attendance in future sessions.

Conclusion

The Senate Standing Committee’s latest meeting underscored the urgent need for reforms in healthcare pricing, educational integrity, and workplace ethics. From mandating transparent lab test pricing to improving examination systems, these measures aim to enhance public trust and ensure fairness across Pakistan’s healthcare sector.

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