Punjab seeks explanation from nine hospitals over financial irregularities

Lahore: The Punjab Health Department has sought explanations from nine major teaching hospitals over alleged financial irregularities and violations of procurement policies during the fiscal year 2025-26. Officials reported that these hospitals failed to implement the Annual Procurement Calendar and ignored departmental guidelines for purchasing medicines and disposable items. A review revealed that 57 percent of expenditures were made through Local Purchase (LP), indicating a breach of financial discipline. Hospitals including Services Hospital, Mayo Hospital, and Benazir Bhutto Hospital Rawalpindi are among those under scrutiny. Authorities have directed all institutions to submit their responses within five days, warning of strict disciplinary action in case of proven negligence or mismanagement.