MARDAN: Medical Teaching Institution (MTI) Mardan Medical Complex held its fifth E-Khuli Kachehri session on Monday, bringing hospital leadership and members of the public together to discuss healthcare services, administrative improvements and community complaints.
The virtual session addressed 17 public queries, complaints and suggestions, with hospital officials providing updates on measures taken in response to feedback from previous sessions.
Queue Management System Introduced in OPD
Hospital Director Brigadier (Retd) Dr Muhammad Abrar Khan briefed participants on operational improvements across the medical complex.
He said a Queue Management System has been implemented in the outpatient department (OPD) to reduce patient waiting times. Plans are also underway for a dedicated Filter OPD to help direct patients according to their medical conditions and improve patient flow.
Security measures have also been strengthened, including ID-card scanning at entry gates and the installation of smart doors in sensitive areas to restrict unauthorised access.
1,200 Seats Provided for Attendants
The Hospital Director said 1,200 chairs have been placed in designated attendant waiting areas. Families and visitors were encouraged to use these facilities instead of waiting in hospital corridors.
He also requested that patients be accompanied by only the necessary number of attendants so medical staff can focus on patient care.
The hospital is also recruiting porters to assist with internal patient transfers and transport blood samples directly to laboratories, with the aim of reducing delays.
Dr Abrar Khan confirmed that the MRI unit is fully operational and said the Cath Lab is expected to resume full operations shortly.
Additional Equipment for Emergency and ICU
Medical Director Prof. Dr Muhammad Said Khan said additional ABG machines have been arranged for the Accident & Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit.
He said the presence of female staff in high-traffic areas is being monitored and clarified that dedicated attendant areas near the NICU have been designated for female visitors.
The Medical Director also said the hospital’s internal Ethical Committee investigates complaints involving privacy violations or unauthorised video recordings and takes action against staff members found responsible.
Administration Promises Action on Complaints
Dr Abrar Khan said an immediate investigation would be conducted into a complaint concerning the collection of fees for OPD washroom use.
He said public-address megaphones have already been installed in several areas to improve communication within the hospital, with further expansion planned.
The Hospital Director also reiterated the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards touts and urged community representatives and influential individuals not to seek concessions for people accused of exploiting patients.
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