The Holy Family Hospital (HFH), a significant public sector healthcare institution with a history dating back to its establishment in 1943, is set to undergo a comprehensive evacuation as part of a monumental upgrade and revamping project costing Rs 2 billion.
In line with this ambitious venture, Rawalpindi’s Commissioner, Liaquat Ali Chattha, has issued a notification instructing the immediate relocation of all patients from HFH to four other city hospitals in a phased manner.
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Implications for Emergency Rooms and Operation Theatres
The transition of patients from HFH to other healthcare facilities, as outlined in the notification, is expected to place added pressure on the emergency rooms and operation theaters of the Benazir Bhutto General Hospital and the District Headquarters Hospital. These institutions prepare to accommodate the influx of patients during this transitional phase.
Holy Family Hospital Begins Renovation and Swift Evacuation for Upgradation
The notification clearly states that the HFH building must be vacated promptly and handed to the Punjab Communications and Works Department. This facilitates the upgrade and revamping project, which is vital for the hospital’s future.
The dengue ward and other essential services currently housed in HFH will be shifted immediately to the Red Crescent Hospital. Additionally, the four other hospitals in the city, including the Benazir Bhutto General Hospital (BBH), the District Headquarters Teaching Hospital (DHQ), the Rawalpindi Institute of Urology and Transplantation (RIUT), and the Red Crescent Hospital, will also play a pivotal role in the transfer and treatment of HFH patients.
Addressing Long-standing Issues
The HFH building, with a capacity of 1,100 beds, has faced many problems, including severe dilapidation, roof leaks, and a decrepit sewage and water supply system. The hospital’s deteriorating condition had a direct impact on patient care.
Recognizing the urgency of this situation, Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi approved a generous grant of Rs 2 billion for the much-needed upgrade and revamping of the HFH building. The project is expected to be completed within four months.
Dr. Farooq Kisana, Additional Medical Superintendent of HFH, explained that a phased plan is being developed to evacuate the hospital building and transfer patients to other medical facilities to minimize disruptions in the healthcare system.
Dr. Tahir Rizvi, the Medical Superintendent of BBH, acknowledged that the patient transfer from HFH would pose a challenge to both BBH and DHQ Hospital. He highlighted the potential strain on operation theaters and emergency rooms, which may impact surgeries. Plans are underway to ensure a smooth transition for HFH patients to four other hospitals.
Prof. Muhammad Omer, Vice-Chancellor of Rawalpindi Medical University, emphasized the urgency of upgradation and revamping, which had been long overdue. The rapid deterioration of the HFH building affected patients and placed tremendous burdens on medical professionals. He expressed confidence that the project would be completed within four months, restoring HFH to full functionality.
Once the reconstruction is complete, HFH will gain new beds, upgraded operating rooms, a renovated emergency department, improved OPD wards, and the provision of clean drinking water for patients.
Final Words
The revitalization of HFH, one of Rawalpindi’s most prominent healthcare facilities, is long-awaited and much-anticipated by both staff and the public. With its 1,100 beds, the hospital plays a vital role in providing healthcare services to the city’s residents and has witnessed a high patient footfall over the years.
