Karachi (Press Release); The National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) categorically denies the allegations of irregularities recently circulated in the media, which were based on routine observations by the Auditor General of Sindh.
*Audit Observations Are Standard-Not Proof of Irregularities:*
A spokesperson for NICVD clarified that the Auditor General issues observations to all government departments as a standard practice. These are preliminary remarks, and relevant institutions are required to submit explanations and justifications in response.
“Audit observations do not imply misconduct or corruption. Drawing premature conclusions from these without verification is misleading and unjust,” the spokesperson emphasized.
It is also important to note that most of the Audit Proposed Draft Paras pertain to previous years and do not relate to the tenure of the current management. Nevertheless, NICVD is fully committed to transparency and will respond to each and every observation with the required documentation and justifications.
*Why Is NICVD Being Singled Out?*
Audit observations are a routine part of government oversight, yet such reports from other departments are not released to the media. NICVD questions the motives behind the selective targeting:
“Why is NICVD’s audit report being publicized when similar reports from other institutions are not? This appears to be a deliberate attempt to defame an institute that is delivering exceptional healthcare to millions,” said the spokesperson.
*Serving Over 1.4 Million Patients Free of Cost Annually:*
NICVD remains committed to its mission of providing free, world-class cardiac care to patients from across Pakistan. In the last year alone, NICVD treated over 1.4 million patients completely free of cost, including:
• Primary Angioplasties (Emergency lifesaving procedures): 10,000+
• Elective and Early Angioplasties: 4,500+
• Adult Cardiac Surgeries: 1,702
• Paediatric Cardiac Surgeries: 1,450
• Paediatric Interventional Procedures: 2,061
• Stroke Interventions: 75 (free stroke treatment available for patients arriving within 4-6 hours)
• PTMC Procedures: 299
• TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation): 30 – high-end procedure now performed routinely
• Echocardiography: Over 90,000 performed
• Emergency Patients Treated: 276,733
• Outpatient Consultations (OPD): 333,760
• Hospital Admissions: 54,347
A significant milestone is the treatment of 160,427 patients from other provinces, including Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan – all provided with the same quality treatment, free of cost.
*Staff Compensation Is Transparent and Approved:*
NICVD hires highly trained, experienced consultants and paramedical staff, offering them competitive packages to ensure retention and excellence in patient care.
All staff compensations and allowances are formally approved by the NICVD Governing Body and are in accordance with the enabling provisions of NICVD (Sindh Administration) Act, 2014. Competitive remuneration is essential to retain top-tier talent who otherwise could move to private or overseas institutions,” said the spokesperson.
*NICVD’s Progress is a Testament to its Integrity:*
Despite the allegations, NICVD continues to make significant strides in healthcare infrastructure and service delivery:
• A new Outpatient Department (OPD) complex, equipped with modern facilities and increased capacity, is nearing completion. The facility will become operational by September 2025, offering an improved patient experience and expanded service delivery.
• Construction of a new Masjid on the NICVD premises to cater to the spiritual needs of patients, attendants, and staff.
• New Mess Facility under construction to improve food services for both staff and admitted patients.
• A state-of-the-art 100-bedded Emergency Room (ER) is being developed to manage the increasing volume of critical cases efficiently.
• A 300-capacity Conference Hall is being constructed to support academic events, clinical workshops, and international medical collaborations.
• A dedicated Clinical Trial Unit is being established to support research and innovation in cardiovascular medicine, ensuring NICVD remains at the forefront of medical advancement.
“Which institution alleged to be corrupt continues to expand and improve services at this scale? NICVD’s consistent progress and ability to cater to millions each year is clear proof of its integrity and transparency.”
Crossing Provincial Boundaries – A Landmark Initiative:
For the first time in its history, NICVD has extended its specialized cardiac services beyond the borders of Sindh, initiating free Paediatric Cardiac Services in Quetta, Balochistan
• Over 100 paediatric cardiac surgeries done
• More than 250 paediatric interventions have been successfully performed in Quetta.
• NICVD’s team is also training and supporting local staff, with plans underway for establishing a dedicated paediatric cardiac hospital in the province.
*Baseless Allegations Spread by Disgruntled Individuals:*
Some of the misinformation being circulated appears to be coming from former employees who either resigned or were terminated due to disciplinary reasons.
“It is regrettable that individuals with personal grievances are attempting to undermine the reputation of NICVD, which is a beacon of hope for cardiac patients across the country,” said Spokesperson, NICVD.
NICVD is preparing and will soon submit its official response to the Auditor General Sindh regarding the observations mentioned. We urge media houses and journalists to exercise caution and responsibility in reporting on sensitive issues that impact public health institutions. Sensational or one-sided coverage can erode public trust and jeopardize access to critical healthcare for millions.
“NICVD belongs to the people of Pakistan. We request all stakeholders to support our mission of saving lives with dignity, free of cost.”
