LAHORE: Private hospitals and clinics across Punjab are observing a shutdown on Wednesday following a protest call by the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) against tax-related measures introduced by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
Private Healthcare Facilities Observe Shutdown
The protest centres on the implementation of digital invoicing and Point-of-Sale (POS) requirements for private healthcare providers. The PMA has also raised objections to fines, enforcement actions and proceedings under Section 175C, describing the approach adopted toward healthcare institutions as inappropriate.
PMA Branches Coordinate Strike
PMA Punjab’s district branches had been instructed to coordinate with private hospitals and clinics to implement the September 30 strike. Reports from Punjab on Wednesday indicate that the protest is being observed in parts of the province, with private medical facilities suspending services.
YDA Punjab Supports Protest
According to the statement provided by Young Doctors Association Punjab President Dr Shoaib Niazi, the YDA is also supporting the protest call, and he said private clinics and hospitals across Punjab were participating in the shutdown.
PMA Seeks Changes to Tax Measures
The PMA argues that healthcare should not be treated in the same manner as conventional retail activity and has demanded changes to the POS and related enforcement regime. A PMA Punjab convention is scheduled for October 11 in Gujrat to discuss the medical community’s next course of action.
