Multan’s Heart Surgery Queue Raises a Big Question
Muhammad Atif Ismail
Multan: More than 2,200 patients are currently waiting for open-heart surgery at the Cardiology Institute in Multan, with around 10 procedures being performed each day, official sources said on Sunday.
According to sources, patients on the waiting list are categorized based on the urgency and severity of their medical conditions. Those requiring emergency or urgent surgery are given priority, while patients in stable condition are scheduled according to their clinical needs and the availability of surgical slots.
Open-heart surgeries are being provided free of cost to eligible patients at the government-run facility. However, some patients also opt for arrangements involving additional payments under applicable procedures, allowing them to secure an earlier surgery date subject to availability.
Sources said the substantial backlog has persisted for a considerable period despite the availability of cardiac surgery services at some private hospitals in Multan.
At the current surgical capacity, clearing the backlog of around 2,200 patients could take between six and 10 months, particularly as new patients continue to be referred for surgery.
An official source clarified that the hospital does not follow a strictly first-come, first-served policy in every case. Patients requiring urgent or emergency treatment are accommodated earlier after assessment of their medical condition.
“The timing of surgery is decided according to the patient’s condition and the urgency of the case,” the source said.
The official added that patients with more serious conditions are prioritized, while those in stable condition are given appointments based on the available surgical schedule.
The waiting list highlights the continued demand for cardiac surgery services across South Punjab. The Multan facility serves patients from the city and surrounding districts, as well as some areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
While private hospitals provide an alternative for some patients who can afford treatment, the government cardiac facility remains a major source of free open-heart surgery for people unable to bear the cost of private healthcare. The report was released by APP on Seeptember 13, 2026.
