The Punjab health department has ordered all civil surgeons in the state to postpone all surgeries, except emergency cases, for the next 15 days. This comes amid reports of specialist doctors running away from Covid-19 related duties citing other surgeries.

“The increase in the number of cases will require the services of more healthcare staff. Keeping this in view, you are hereby requested to postpone the elective surgeries in all government healthcare facilities so that the staff is available for Covid-19 duties,” read a letter sent to all civil surgeons by the director, health and family welfare.

Elective surgery is a procedure scheduled in advance because it does not involve a medical emergency. “All the staff that would assist these doctors in elective surgeries have also been asked to be put on Covid-related duties immediately,” an official said.

Also, the health department has issued orders to rural pharmacy officers to perform Covid-19 duties or face action.

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