YDA Convention Exposes Dire Healthcare Issues in Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit Baltistan

The Young Doctors Association (YDA) held a convention in PoGB to address critical healthcare challenges. A shortage of medical staff, inadequate equipment, and poor salaries were highlighted. Doctors demanded regularisation and better working conditions. The event underscored the need for immediate reforms to improve healthcare services in the region.

The Young Doctors Association (YDA) convened in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB) to highlight the pressing issues faced by healthcare professionals in the area, WTV News reported on Monday. Participants underscored the acute shortage of medical staff, lack of adequate equipment, and poor remuneration as major concerns.

YDA member Bahadur Shah emphasized that although PoGB has skilled doctors willing to contribute to local development, their grievances have largely been ignored by authorities. 'PoGB has capable doctors who can secure good salaries elsewhere, but we choose to work here to uplift the region. Despite our protests, the response from the CM House has been unacceptable and shameful,' Shah said.

Shah also called for regularised positions and promotions, noting the absence of Federal Public Service Commission exams since 2018. 'From 2018 to 2024, no government exams have been conducted. We demand our deserved promotions and regularisation as we continue to serve the community,' he added.

A lady doctor from Hunza district raised concerns about the shortage of specialised doctors and inadequate facilities. 'Hunza is a tourism hub, yet lacks critical specializations like orthopedic surgery. We are overworked and unable to provide proper treatment,' she said. The convention aimed to draw attention to these issues and push for improvements in PoGB's healthcare system.

(With inputs from agencies.)