Key Takeaways
- The Islamabad Consumers Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was approved by the Senate Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control.
- Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri proposed the bill to increase transparency in medical charges.
- The bill aims to protect consumers by ensuring clear information about doctors' fees and related expenses.
The Senate Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control unanimously approved the Islamabad Consumers Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, on Monday. The bill seeks to make doctors' fees and related expenses more transparent to patients.
Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, who moved the bill, argued that patients should have access to clear information about medical charges. She stated that the proposed changes are aimed at improving transparency and protecting consumers.
However, Minister of State for Interior Senator Talal Chaudhry opposed the bill, stating that the issue falls under the purview of the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA). He warned that legislation on technical health matters without sufficient expertise could lead to implementation difficulties.
A Ministry of Law representative also objected to the bill, recommending that IHRA officials be called before the committee to explain the regulator's position. The representative highlighted the importance of expertise in handling such matters.
During the discussion, Zehri criticized the continued resistance to her proposal, referencing the recent PIMS incident. She emphasized the need for effective legislation and cooperation between government institutions and parliamentary committees.
Committee Chairman Faisal Saleem Rehman stressed the importance of lawmakers being able to legislate effectively and called for better cooperation with government institutions. He stated that the committee should be able to handle such matters without undue resistance.
The bill now moves forward for further consideration and implementation. It is expected to significantly impact the way patients are informed about medical costs and services in Islamabad.
