In a decisive move to curb illegal organ transplants, the Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority (PHOTA) has ramped up its regulatory efforts under the leadership of Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique. The crackdown aligns with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision to ensure ethical and accessible healthcare across the province.
Zero Tolerance for illegal Transplants
During PHOTA’s 35th Monitoring Authority meeting, officials reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating unauthorized organ trade. The meeting included representatives from the Pakistan Medical Association, Punjab Healthcare Commission, and leading transplant surgeons, signaling a united front against malpractice2.
Hospital Registrations and Renewals
PHOTA approved the registration and renewal of multiple hospitals for kidney, liver, and cornea transplants. Notable approvals include:
- Begum Akhtar Rukhsana Memorial Trust Orchard Hospital for liver transplants
- City Hospital Multan, PKLI Lahore, and Adil Hospital Lahore for renal transplants
- Sahiwal Teaching Hospital and Madina Teaching Hospital Faisalabad for corneal transplants2
Budget and Training Initiatives
The authority also passed the 2025–26 budget and announced a five-day training workshop on organ and tissue transplantation essentials. Plans to initiate bone banking and pancreas transplants were also greenlit, expanding Punjab’s transplant capabilities3.
Pediatric Kidney Transplant Committee
A new committee was formed to oversee kidney transplants for children, addressing a critical gap in pediatric care. This move reflects the government’s broader commitment to inclusive and ethical medical services.
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