Punjab approves expansion of Cardiac Cath Labs in DHQs
Interventional cardiologists, technologists and nurses to be hired under special packages: New labs to reduce patient travel and provide emergency cardiac treatment
Punjab has approved the creation of new positions for modern, internationally standardised cardiac catheterisation laboratories at district headquarters (DHQ) hospitals as part of an ambitious plan to strengthen cardiac care across the province.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the initiative includes the hiring of interventional cardiologists, medical officers, cath lab technologists and trained nurses, all of whom will be recruited on special pay packages.
Officials said the first phase will see recruitment completed in 16 districts where new cath labs are being established.
The total number of required staff will be further increased, and all appointments will be finalised before the laboratories become operational.
The expansion aims to bring advanced cardiac treatment closer to underserved populations.
Once functional, the new facilities will offer immediate intervention for heart attacks and other complex cardiac diseases.
Procedures such as angiography and angioplasty will now be available at the DHQ level, significantly reducing the burden on tertiary hospitals and cutting travel time for patients.
Authorities have instructed relevant departments to utilise all resources needed to reinforce Punjab’s cardiac care infrastructure, positioning the new labs as a major step toward decentralised and timely heart treatment across the province.
Reporter: Rao Dilshad