The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, on Tuesday, has imposed a complete ban on photography and videography inside the hospital to protect patient privacy and maintain professional medical standards.
A circular has been issued by the hospital administration.
It stated that taking photos or recording videos in any department is not allowed without written permission from the relevant authorities.
The ban is applicable to all clinical areas. These include emergency wards, outpatient departments, hospital wards, and operating theatres.
The administration also said that the restriction covers all clinical and service areas to protect patient confidentiality and maintain ethical standards.
Hospital staff have been directed to strictly follow the new rules. These include doctors, nurses, and administrative workers.
Department heads have also been asked to ensure that the policy is implemented.
The circular also warns that disciplinary action will be taken if any in charge is found responsible for violations.
PIMS makes medical history
Earlier, Islamabad made medical history when the first robotic surgery was successfully performed at the PIMS.
The surgery was conducted under the supervision of Professor Shamim Khan, Professor Matin Sharif, and Dr Javed Burki.
Doctors Dr Atif Inam Shami, Dr Burhanul Haq, and Dr Khalid Saeed also took part in the procedure.
Medical experts from the United Kingdom joined the operation and provided support.
According to PIMS officials, the use of robotic technology will make complex surgeries safer, more precise, and more effective in the future.
Executive Director of PIMS, Dr Imran Sikandar, said this was the first time robotic surgery had been performed in the history of the hospital.
Robotic surgery, also known as robot assisted surgery, is typically performed through small incisions. But it can sometimes be used in open surgical procedures.
A robotic surgery system usually consists of a camera arm and mechanical arms equipped with surgical instruments.
