Need stressed for setting up public health university

A policy roundtable on "finalization of recommendations for public health professionals in Punjab" was held, here at Punjab Public Health Agency on Wednesday in a bid to strengthen public health as priority profession in Punjab.
Head of Public Health Department at the University of Health Sciences (UHS), Dr Shakeela Zaman told the gathering that the UHS is launching new public health programmes, including an MSc in Epidemiology. She strongly recommended the establishment of a university for public health to steer the public health workforce agenda for Punjab. It was suggested that a sub-committee be constituted to present an operational framework for the same. Currently, the PMDC only recognizes doctors and dentists qualifying in PH Programmes.
The participants highlighted the need for broadening the eligibility criteria for public health programmes and establishment of a public health council to regulate public health profession.
Dean Institute of Public Health (IPH) Dr Tajammul emphasized on introduction of further specialties in public health, with clear eligibilities defined for each specialty, to cater to the advancing needs of the province.
Ex-Dean IPH Dr Shaheena Manzoor emphasized that PMDC and HEC recognition must be ensured before launching of any public health programme.
It was informed that in Punjab post-graduate public health programmes are being offered only by a handful of institutions and the output to-date has been largely contributed by the Institute of Public Health (IPH), Lahore, producing Masters' in public health, maternal and child health, and hospital management. IPH also offers M.Phil, membership and fellowship programmes in community medicine.
The participants endorsed the need of promulgation of the Punjab Public Health Act, and as a key step towards promoting and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the people of Punjab. The Act is expected to be presented before the Cabinet in upcoming weeks.
Dr Tanvir Ahmed, ex-Director General Health Services suggested a research study to explore the drivers of brain drain. A sub-committee was formed at the occasion to design and execute the assessment. Dr Jamshaid Ahmed from WHO stressed the need for career counseling for students at entry level.
The senior public health faculty lauded the efforts of the government, in taking lead in recognizing and facilitating the establishment of the Punjab Public Health Agency (PPHA). The launch of this "future institution" is a reflection of government's commitment to safeguard the health of the present and future generations.
The Punjab government has committed Rs 1.3 billion towards the establishment of the PPHA. This institution is expected to be largest employer of public health professionals, with 285 approved public health positions at provincial and district level. Dr Shabnum Sarfraz informed the audience that PPHA has been awarded the lead role of serving as the secretariat for the South Asia IANPHI chapter.