Introduction
The Pak-Italian Modern Burn Centre (PIMBC), located within Nishtar Hospital in Multan, Pakistan, stands as a testament to international collaboration in healthcare. Established through the Pak-Italian Debt Swap Agreement (PIDSA), this state-of-the-art facility addresses the critical need for specialized burn treatment in South Punjab.
Historical Background
Inaugurated on February 7, 2018, by then Chief Minister Punjab Shehbaz Sharif, the PIMBC was constructed at a cost of PKR 900 million. The center was envisioned to provide comprehensive care for burn victims, including those affected by acid attacks, which have been a significant concern in the region. The PIDSA project, spanning from January 2013 to December 2015, aimed to assess the needs of acid/burn survivors, ensuring they receive comprehensive medical, psychological, and legal support.
Facilities and Services
Infrastructure and Capacity
The PIMBC boasts a 71-bed capacity, encompassing operation theaters and an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Equipped with modern medical technologies, the center is designed to handle a wide range of burn cases, from minor injuries to severe traumas.
Specialized Units
- Burn Treatment and Management: Comprehensive care for patients with thermal, chemical, and electrical burns.
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Advanced surgical procedures to restore function and appearance.
- Congenital Hand Surgery: Correction of congenital anomalies to improve hand function.
- Cleft Lip and Palate Repair: Surgical interventions for facial deformities.
- Laser Treatments: Non-invasive procedures for scar management and skin rejuvenation.
Pediatric Care
Recognizing the increasing incidence of burn injuries among children, plans were discussed in December 2021 to establish a dedicated pediatric unit within the center. This initiative aims to expand bed capacity and ensure timely treatment for young patients.
Collaborative Efforts and Social Impact
Partnership with Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM)
In April 2020, the PIMBC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PBM to provide financial assistance to underprivileged patients. Under this agreement, patients with a monthly income of up to PKR 17,000 are eligible for treatment support amounting to PKR 600,000 after verification. This collaboration has significantly benefited residents across 11 districts of South Punjab.
Rehabilitation and Legal Support
Beyond medical treatment, the center emphasizes holistic rehabilitation, including psychosocial support, vocational training, and legal aid for acid and burn survivors. These services aim to reintegrate survivors into society as proactive and self-confident individuals.
Challenges and Controversies
Administrative Irregularities
In 2024, an inquiry led to the suspension of six employees, including security guards and a storekeeper, due to various complaints and irregularities. These actions were taken under the Punjab Employees Efficiency, Discipline, and Accountability (PEEDA) Act to uphold the center’s operational integrity.
Drug Theft Scandal
A significant scandal emerged involving the theft of medicines worth millions of rupees. Investigations revealed that a security guard, employed with fake credentials, was implicated in the theft. Despite evidence, administrative inaction allowed the accused to abscond, raising concerns about oversight and accountability within the institution. The Express Tribune
Defunct Skin Bank
The skin bank, established to preserve donated skin for grafting procedures, became non-operational due to administrative neglect. The machinery was dismantled, and the designated room repurposed, rendering the facility inactive before it could serve its intended purpose.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Staff Protests and Advocacy
In April 2024, medical staff at the PIMBC protested against political interference and appointments made in violation of merit. While continuing their duties, doctors wore black armbands to express their dissent, emphasizing the need for transparency and meritocracy in administrative decisions.
Contact Information
- Address: Nishtar Road, Justice Hamid Colony, Multan, Punjab, Pakistan
- Phone: +92 61 9330153
- Working Hours: Monday to Saturday: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM; Sunday: Closed
- Sunday (Emergency Only)
Conclusion
The Pak-Italian Modern Burn Centre serves as a critical healthcare facility in South Punjab, offering specialized treatment for burn victims and survivors of acid attacks. While the center has made significant strides in patient care and rehabilitation, administrative challenges and controversies underscore the need for robust governance and accountability. Addressing these issues is imperative to ensure the center continues to fulfill its mission of providing comprehensive and compassionate care to those in need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Pak-Italian Modern Burn Centre?
The Pak-Italian Modern Burn Centre (PIMBC) is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility located within Nishtar Hospital, Multan. It provides specialized care for burn and acid attack victims, with modern treatment options, surgery, and rehabilitation services.
2. Who can get treatment at the Burn Centre?
The centre is open to all patients. Financial support is available for underprivileged individuals, especially those earning less than PKR 17,000 per month through a partnership with Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM).
3. What types of cases are treated at PIMBC?
PIMBC treats:
- Thermal, chemical, and electrical burns
- Acid attack injuries
- Congenital hand anomalies
- Cleft lip and palate deformities
- Post-burn reconstructive needs
- Scarring requiring laser therapy
4. Is there a facility for children or pediatric burn victims?
Yes, plans are in place for a dedicated pediatric burn unit to provide age-appropriate and timely care for children suffering from burn injuries.
5. Is treatment free for poor patients?
Yes, treatment can be free or heavily subsidized for patients who meet financial criteria under the PBM program, covering up to PKR 600,000 per eligible patient.
6. What are the visiting or consultation hours?
The outpatient department operates Monday to Saturday from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The hospital remains closed on Sundays.
7. How can one contact the burn centre for appointments or queries?
You can reach the centre via:
- Phone: +92 61 9330153
- Email: info@nishtar.org
- Address: Nishtar Road, Justice Hamid Colony, Multan, Punjab, Pakistan
- Website: www.nishtar.org
FAQs
8. Does the hospital provide psychological or legal support?
Yes. As part of its rehabilitation services, PIMBC offers psychological counseling and legal aid to survivors of acid and burn violence, promoting social reintegration.
9. What are some major challenges the Burn Centre has faced?
Challenges include:
- Administrative irregularities and mismanagement
- Theft of medical supplies
- A defunct skin bank due to lack of maintenance
- Concerns over political interference in staff appointments
10. Can individuals donate or volunteer to support the centre?
Currently, official donation or volunteering channels are not publicly listed. Interested individuals are advised to contact the administration directly via official contact details.