I

IHRA Holds Introductory Meeting with Laboratories CEOs to Strengthen Quality, Digitization, and Service Delivery 23rd February-2026, Islamabad: A coordination meeting was held between the Dr. Muhammad Zaeem Zia, Chief Executive Officer of the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) and Chief Executive Officers/representatives of various laboratories to strengthen collaboration and improve healthcare service delivery. The session began with introductions, followed by a detailed briefing by the Dr. Muhammad Zaeem Zia Chief Executive Officer, IHRA on the digitization of IHRA’s registration and licensing processes. He urged laboratories to adopt the digital system to ensure transparency, efficiency, and ease for the public, emphasizing that digitization guarantees quality assurance and better service delivery.

Dr. Zia also outlined the structured inspection mechanism, informed participants that inspection teams are equipped with body-worn cameras to ensure transparency and shared that in the past 21 days IHRA teams have visited approximately 900 Healthcare Establishments (HCEs), sealed more than 100 quackery outlets, and conducted hearings in 135 enforcement and complaint cases. Dr. Zia further stated that a pool of trained assessors has been finalized and will soon be deployed in the field to strengthen inspections.

Dr. Zia informed participants that the Minimum Service Delivery Standards (MSDS) for laboratories have been approved and are about to be notified, stressing strict adherence to IHRA standards.

Dr.Zia also emphasized the need to provide reasonable relief in laboratory test pricing for the public without compromising quality. During the open forum session, laboratory representatives shared the challenges they faced and appreciated the opportunity to present their concerns.Dr.Zia addressed and resolved several issues on the spot through constructive dialogue. Representatives acknowledged IHRA as a professional and competitive regulatory body contributing positively to society, appreciated the availability of an appealing authority and a dedicated forum for laboratories, and assured that they would not compromise on quality standards. Concluding the meeting, Dr.Muhamamd Zaeem Zia reiterated that IHRA is committed to facilitation alongside regulation and urged laboratories to cooperate in fulfilling the Authority’s mandate to ensure safe and quality healthcare services for the people.