Ventilator Shortage Hampers Life-Saving Efforts in Islamabad Hospitals

A severe shortage of ventilators is posing significant risks to saving lives in hospitals across Islamabad, the federal capital. Ventilators, crucial for patients in intensive care units (ICUs) who require assistance with breathing, are consistently occupied at major medical facilities like the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) and Polyclinic Hospital. Officials report that nearly all available ventilators are in use most of the time. Dr. Rana Imran Sikander, Executive Director of Pims, explained that beyond financial constraints, numerous other factors contribute to the scarcity. Pims has over 90 ventilators across its ICUs, but occupancy remains at nearly 100%. Some patients require ventilator support for extended periods, around 20 days, further straining resources. The hospital faces the challenge of a high patient influx, with no refusal policy, meaning patients are treated even if beds or equipment are limited. The daily cost of operating a ventilator at Pims is approximately Rs200,000, yet treatment, including medicines, is provided free of charge to emergency and ICU patients. Compounding the issue is a critical lack of specialized and trained staff to operate the ventilators. Dr. Sikander noted that while a new block at Pims will add 40 ventilators, he also advised lifestyle changes to reduce the burden on hospitals. Polyclinic Hospital spokesperson Dr. Abdul Jabbar Bhutto confirmed a similar situation, stating that their 35 ventilators are always occupied and that acquiring more would necessitate additional trained personnel due to the severe human resource shortage.

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so many other factors