PIMS in Islamabad has temporarily stopped taking new maternity cases following the recent fire that damaged a section of its children’s nursery.
The decision was made as the hospital faces reduced capacity and works to ensure that patients can be accommodated safely. PIMS Executive Director Rana Imran Sikandar said the facility could not continue admitting patients beyond the number it was capable of handling safely.
The fire caused significant damage to the nursery, destroying 15 of its 50 beds. With only 35 beds remaining operational, the hospital is currently working with fewer facilities than before the incident.
The reduction in available beds has affected the hospital’s ability to manage additional patients, particularly those requiring maternity and neonatal services.
Officials have indicated that patients may be directed to other hospitals in Islamabad and Rawalpindi when necessary. The arrangement is intended to prevent overcrowding and ensure that patients receive care at facilities with available capacity.
The suspension comes as PIMS continues dealing with the impact of the fire and reviews its ability to safely operate affected services. Hospital authorities are also working on arrangements to manage patients while capacity remains limited.
The situation has added pressure to healthcare facilities in the twin cities, which may have to accommodate patients referred from PIMS during the temporary restrictions.
Hospital officials have stressed that patient safety remains a priority as services are adjusted following the incident. New admissions will depend on the hospital’s available capacity and the arrangements made for affected departments.
The development highlights the wider impact of the nursery fire, which has disrupted healthcare services beyond the immediate damage caused to the affected ward.
As PIMS works to restore its facilities and manage patient flow, authorities are expected to continue monitoring capacity and referring patients to other hospitals where required.
