The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan (CPSP) has imposed a strict ban on making postgraduate doctors work without pay.
CPSP warns hospitals of suspension if they fail to pay postgraduate doctors. The hospitals that were not paying doctors have also been directed to clear all pending salaries.
It further stated that such institutions may also be barred from admitting new trainees in the July 2026 session.
Doctors can formally file a complaint now if the hospitals are not paying them on time.
It is pertinent to mention that this action took place following reports that several institutions were making postgraduate doctors work up to 60 hours a week without any salary or stipend.
According to CPSP, the minimum monthly stipend for FCPS/MCPS (First Fellowship) has been set at Rs 104,000 (equivalent to Grade 17), while for Second Fellowship it has been set at Rs 150,000.
Postgraduate doctors are licensed physicians (MBBS/BDS) pursuing advanced medical education and clinical training.
According to the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), the country has produced 200,000 doctors since its independence. The data from the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment shows that 30,000 doctors have left Pakistan since 1970. On average, 1,000 doctors settle abroad every year.
In Pakistan, the doctor-patient ratio is 1:1,300, while the minimum suggested by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for developing nations is 1:1,000.
