Punjab bans mobile phone use by doctors and nurses during duty hours

Punjab's Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has issued a ban on the use of mobile phones by doctors and nurses while on duty in all government hospitals in the province in an effort to improve patient care and also bolster discipline within hospitals.

The ban was issued via an official letter to all public sector hospitals and clearly states, “Medical staff, including doctors and nurses, will NOT be permitted to use mobile phones during duty hours. 

If a medical staff member is found to be violating this order, they will be subject to disciplinary action under the PEEDA Act, which includes termination from service.

The ban was put in place as a mechanism to improve healthcare services being offered by provincial hospitals. 

Moreover, the provincial government has made particular note of its view that doctors/material staff have been distracted from actual acts of care towards patients because of mobile phones.

All medical superintendents and administrators of provincial hospitals have been directed to immediately ensure that the above order is enforced and continues to be enforced. There is also a provision for surprise inspections by government authorities to review compliance with the order.

The mobile phone ban is now firmly applicable in every government hospital in Punjab, which does not exempt anyone.