KARACHI: The Consumers Association of Pakistan (CAP) has strongly opposed any proposal by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to allow the import of refurbished medical devices. The association warned that such a move could endanger patient safety and weaken confidence in the country’s healthcare system.

CAP Raises Safety Concerns

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi on Sunday, CAP Chairman Kaukab Iqbal said Pakistan must not become a dumping ground for used medical equipment discarded by other countries. He argued that hospitals should provide safe treatment rather than expose patients to outdated or previously used medical devices.

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Iqbal said faulty equipment, hidden defects, poor calibration, sterilization failures, or an unclear maintenance history could lead to severe infections, permanent disabilities, life-threatening complications, or even death.

He stressed that the government should place patient safety above commercial interests and cost-saving measures.

Call for Government Intervention

The CAP chairman urged Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal to personally intervene and prevent DRAP from approving any policy that could expose patients to unnecessary risks.

He said the federal health minister has both a constitutional and moral responsibility to protect the lives and health of Pakistani citizens.

Demand for Public Consultation

Kaukab Iqbal called on DRAP to hold comprehensive consultations before making any decision. He said consumer organizations, medical specialists, biomedical engineers, infection control experts, healthcare institutions, and other stakeholders should participate in the policy-making process.

He emphasized that authorities should base any decision on scientific evidence, transparency, and internationally accepted patient safety standards.

Appeal to Prime Minister

The Consumers Association of Pakistan also urged the Prime Minister and the federal government to ensure that healthcare regulations protect patients instead of facilitating the entry of potentially unsafe medical equipment.

CAP reaffirmed its commitment to opposing any policy that could compromise consumer rights or patient safety. The association said it would continue pursuing the matter through all legal, constitutional, and democratic forums.