In a shocking development related to healthcare where Cancer Patients Given Expired Drugs at Mayo Hospital has sparked a widespread concern and an urgent investigation.
The revelation of this serious lapse in healthcare protocols has led to the immediate seizure of the compromised drugs and the re-admission of affected patients. Health authorities are now working diligently to assess the impact on Cancer Patients and to ensure that no further harm is done. The incident highlights critical issues in hospital management and patient safety, raising questions about the oversight and quality control measures in place at Mayo Hospital Lahore.
Sources indicate that following the exposure of this scandal, Mayo Hospital’s administration quickly identified and readmitted three previously discharged cancer patients. These patients were promptly examined by a team of senior doctors, including oncologists, to assess their current health status and any potential impacts from the expired medications.
Hospital officials and senior medical staff are reportedly unaware of the full extent of the issue, including the total number of affected patients. An ongoing investigation aims to identify and assist all individuals who might have received the compromised drugs.
King Edward Medical University (KEMU) Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ayaz Mahmood has confirmed that expired drugs were administered to cancer patients at Mayo Hospital. In response, two storekeepers have been suspended for their negligence, and a five-member investigative committee has been established to probe the matter.
The committee includes Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad Butt, Dr. Qazi Mumtaz, Deputy Nursing Superintendent Ms. Tahira Khatoon, Senior Pharmacist Sadia Khalid, and Audit Officer Mohammad Hifzan. Dr. Ayaz Mahmood reported that the affected patients underwent various diagnostic tests, including ECGs, to monitor their health, given the potential cardiac risks associated with expired medications. Thankfully, initial ECG results have been normal, although further test results are awaited.
Public health experts, including pharmacists, conducted a raid on Mayo Hospital’s storage facilities, seizing the expired cancer medications. Samples of these drugs have been sent to laboratories for detailed analysis. There are concerns that hospital authorities are attempting to downplay the situation, possibly to avoid political repercussions from Punjab’s chief minister.
This incident is not isolated. A recent case in Khanewal District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ) involved the death of minor patients due to expired antibiotics, leading to police action and widespread protests among healthcare professionals. Similarly, an incident in September 2023 affected patients’ eyesight across Lahore and Kasur, resulting in the suspension of numerous drug inspectors.
In response to these recurring issues, the government has temporarily banned the manufacturing and supply of faulty medications while investigations continue.
This developing story highlights serious concerns about the safety of healthcare practices and the need for rigorous oversight to prevent such incidents in the future.
