In a landmark decision, the Islamabad Health Regulatory Authority (IHRA) has issued policy directives instructing hospitals in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) to immediately release the bodies of deceased patients, prohibiting the practice of withholding them over unpaid medical bills. This announcement has been met with widespread public appreciation, marking a much-needed intervention in a practice that has long caused distress to grieving families. For years, families of deceased patients in Islamabad faced the distressing situation of hospitals refusing to release the body until all medical bills were paid. This caused immense emotional and financial strain as loved ones had to manage funeral arrangements while dealing with the pressure of outstanding charges.

Many families, already burdened by medical costs and grief, were forced to settle bills upfront before receiving the body. This issue was particularly common in private hospitals, which often charged high advance fees. Citizens said when patients passed unexpectedly or after prolonged illnesses, families struggled to gather the funds, risking delays in burying their loved ones. They said the directives from IHRA’s newly appointed board have brought immense relief to the public, with many taking to social media and public forums to voice their gratitude. Haider Ali, a resident of Islamabad, shared his experience, “This decision is a blessing for families going through the toughest time of their lives.”

He said, “I recently lost my father to a sudden heart attack, and I was forced to run from pillar to post to pay bills before we could bury him. It was traumatic. I am so relieved to see this change.” Advocate Imran Ali appreciating this move said, “This was long overdue. Families are already shattered by loss, and to add the financial burden of ‘paying for the body’ is inhumane.” He said, “I hope this new rule helps prevent this exploitation. Hospitals shouldn’t use death as a business transaction.” Medical professionals, too, have expressed support for the move, with many acknowledging that it would ease the pressure on families while encouraging hospitals to adopt a more compassionate approach in such sensitive circumstances.

Professor Dr Nasir Ali, a cardiologist at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), commented on the new directives, stating, “While it’s essential for hospitals to cover their operational costs, we must ensure that families are not exploited during their most vulnerable moments. He said, “This directive strikes a crucial balance between financial sustainability and preserving the dignity of the deceased.” He recommended that hospitals should set aside funds for such emergencies, as they generate substantial revenue year-round, and deaths, though tragic, are relatively infrequent. He highlighted the issue of holding death certificate by the hospitals to clear their dues which he thinks, is against our religious, social and moral values.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)