Islamabad: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has sought a detailed explanation from the Punjab health authorities and the administration of Lady Willingdon Hospital, Lahore, over the alleged filming of patients inside an operation theatre, directing that full facts, identification of those involved and action taken be shared at the earliest to enable regulatory proceedings.
In a formal communication issued on Monday, the Council asked the Department of Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education, Government of Punjab, to provide factual details regarding the reported incident, in which postgraduate trainees were allegedly involved in recording patients during surgical procedures in violation of standard operating procedures.
The move follows widespread circulation of a video reportedly recorded inside an operating theatre, raising serious concerns about patient dignity, confidentiality and adherence to medical ethics. The Council has taken the matter seriously and indicated that the case involves potential breaches of professional conduct and discipline within a clinical setting.
According to officials, the PM&DC has specifically sought information on the identification of doctors allegedly involved in filming and sharing the footage, whether any consent was obtained from patients prior to recording, and what disciplinary measures, if any, have been initiated by the hospital administration.
The Council has also asked for the current status of the case, including actions already taken by the provincial health department, to determine the next course of regulatory action.
President PM&DC Prof Dr Rizwan Taj termed the alleged incident unacceptable, saying that recording patients without consent, particularly in sensitive environments such as operation theatres, constitutes a serious violation of ethical standards and patient rights. He stressed that such conduct, if proven, would attract strict action under the relevant legal and professional framework.
Officials said the Council maintains a zero tolerance policy towards breaches of its Code of Ethics, especially those compromising patient confidentiality and dignity. They added that the PM&DC would review the response from Punjab authorities and proceed with disciplinary action against those found responsible.
The incident has once again highlighted gaps in enforcement of ethical standards in hospitals, particularly regarding the use of mobile devices and recording within restricted clinical areas.
Health authorities in Punjab are expected to submit their report to the Council shortly, after which further action will be initiated in line with regulatory procedures.
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