Punjab Issues New Organ Transplant Licenses

The Punjab government has issued new organ transplant licenses to three hospitals, allowing specialised services under the Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority (PHOTA).

The Multan Institute of Kidney Diseases and Saleem Memorial Hospital in Lahore received three-year certificates for kidney transplantation. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute and Research Centre (PKLI) received approval for pancreas transplantation.

New approvals for hospitals

PKLI received a three-year certificate for pancreas transplantation. It also received separate six-month certificates for liver and kidney transplantation.

According to the Punjab Health Department, PHOTA issued the certificates after inspections and recommendations from its Executive Committee. The process aims to ensure hospitals meet required standards.

These approvals could help patients access specialised treatment through regulated facilities. They support stronger oversight across the province.

Focus on safe transplant care

Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique said the government is strengthening PHOTA. He linked the reforms to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s healthcare vision.

The minister said Punjab plans to expand transplant services while ensuring safe treatment. Therefore, stronger monitoring could protect patients.

Transplantation requires skilled teams, suitable facilities, and strict supervision. In addition, inspections can help maintain safety standards.

Action against illegal transplantation

PHOTA Director General Professor Aamir Zaman Khan said the authority is being modernised. He also said PHOTA will continue strict action against illegal organ transplantation in Punjab.

The move signals stronger focus on regulated services. However, licensing remains one part of patient protection.

Hospitals must continue meeting medical requirements after receiving approval. Monitoring can help identify problems early.

For patients needing transplantation, these developments may improve access to specialised care. As a result, regulation could support safer treatment.

Punjab’s approvals show the importance of health oversight. With monitoring, authorities can expand services while protecting patients. This can also strengthen public confidence in Punjab’s transplant system further.