Lahore hospitals crippled by anaesthetist shortage, surgeries halted

• Lahore's healthcare services are crippled by an acute shortage of anaesthetists, leading to widespread surgery postponements and cancellations.
• Major public hospitals, including Mayo, Jinnah, and Services, are severely affected by the crisis.
• The shortage resulted from temporary anaesthetists being let go after their contracts expired, despite prior warnings to the Punjab Health Department.
• Elective surgeries have been halted, and emergency units are struggling to cope with increased demand.
• The Punjab Health Department claims a large-scale recruitment campaign is underway and that doctor shortages are "no longer an issue," contradicting hospital reports.

Why It Matters: Anaesthetist shortage halts surgeries in Lahore, impacting patient care.