Senate health committee flags rising drug prices, vape use, and PIMS oversight gaps
Pakistan's Senate health committee addressed issues including drug prices, vaping regulation, and oversight at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).Summary
The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services in Pakistan convened to discuss critical issues facing the health sector. Key concerns included rising medicine prices, with the committee urging stronger regulatory oversight and awaiting a new pricing policy. The committee also expressed serious concern over the increasing use of vaping products, particularly among youth, and recommended a comprehensive regulatory framework involving multiple ministries. Additionally, the committee reviewed concerns regarding the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), emphasizing its importance as a national asset and forming a Vigilance Committee to monitor PIMS and other federal health institutions. Other matters discussed included attestation of academic credentials, a complaint against a health officer in Lahore, and initiatives to promote indigenous vaccine production.
(Source：The Nation)
