New cardiology institute in Lahore hit by hiring delays

LAHORE: Despite being officially launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz just six weeks ago, the multi-billion rupee Jinnah Institute of Cardiology (JIC) in Lahore has yet to carry out crucial procedures, according to complaints from patients. Many patients are instead being transferred to the already strained Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) and other public hospitals.

Sources indicate that no angiography, angioplasty, or bypass surgeries have transpired since the inauguration on August 21st. The chief minister had proclaimed the JIC as Pakistan's inaugural cardiac transplant center during her remarks. It boasts modern cardiac care amenities, such as a catheterization laboratory, MRI, modular operation theaters, cardiac wards, pathology and radiology labs, intensive care, and emergency departments.

The 250-bed hospital was constructed at a cost of Rs17 billion near Jinnah Hospital and operates as an autonomous institute under the Punjab Specialized Medical Institutions Act 2025 (Act LVI of 2025), a landmark provincial law aimed at reforming public sector specialized healthcare and medical education. Two additional major health projects, including the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cardiology and the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Care Hospital, were also established under this legislation.

Reports suggest that advertisements for JIC positions began in January 2026, yet numerous positions remain unfilled. Many senior cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who were employed by the government have not yet joined the institute. According to sources, various departments are still functioning without departmental heads, as suitable candidates could not be recruited for these positions despite multiple advertisements.

The JIC is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors (BoD), with partial/full funding provided by the Punjab government. Renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Hasnat Khan serves as the Dean and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), while Dr Sabreena holds the position of JIC Director. Currently, only the outpatient department (OPD) and emergency services are in operation, while indoor services have yet to commence.

Punjab Health Minister Khwaja Salman Rafique informed Dawn that delays in critical procedures are due to unavoidable circumstances, and the institute may begin operations within three weeks. He stated that patients previously referred to PIC will soon be accommodated at JIC. The minister mentioned that the JIC's newly-appointed Dean has proposed modifications to the institute to the Infrastructure Development Authority of the Punjab (IDAP).

The dean is also in the process of assembling a team of experienced and dedicated surgeons to begin life-saving procedures. Rafique stated, "I will ensure angiography is performed from next week," adding that the JIC is also striving to decrease the proportion of heart attack patients being referred to PIC.