IHRA declined the request, citing confidentiality of personal treatment records.
Islamabad, The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) has issued a directive to the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) to disclose a public inquiry report concerning alleged negligence by doctors at a private hospital in Rawalpindi. The case revolves around the death of a 26-year-old man, raising significant concerns about patient care standards and transparency in medical practices.
Zahoor Ahmed, a resident of Rawalpindi, lodged a complaint with IHRA in July 2021, accusing hospital doctors of negligence that resulted in the tragic death of his son. Subsequently, citizen Nadeem Umer sought access to the inquiry report from IHRA in February 2024. However, IHRA declined the request, citing confidentiality of personal treatment records.
Umer then appealed to the PIC, which intervened in the matter. The Commission disagreed with IHRA’s justification for withholding the report, citing provisions under the Right of Access to Information Act 2017. According to the Act, finalized inquiry reports must be made accessible to the public, promoting transparency and accountability, particularly in matters concerning public health and safety.
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In its ruling, the PIC has mandated IHRA to furnish certified copies of the inquiry report to both Umer and the Commission within ten days. A follow-up hearing is scheduled for June 16, 2024, to monitor IHRA’s compliance with the directive.
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