The 2nd National Conference of Pakistan Association of Medical Laboratory Sciences (PAMLS) was held recently at the Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore. More than 400 medical technologists and eminent scientists gathered on the occasion. The program included scientific sessions including both oral and poster presentations alongside plenary lectures.
The objective of the Conference was to bring the medical laboratory technologists/scientists (MLT/MLS) at a single platform to share knowledge, experience and research in the field and at the same time identifying the constraints in reviewing current practices and updating the participants on the scope and services MLTs provide in the health care delivery system.
Dr. Saeed Elahi, Parliamentary Secretary for Health inaugurated the session along with Prof. Javed Akram, Principal, Allama Iqbal Medical College, and Prof. Nosheen Yousaf, Head of Pathology at Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore.
Speaking at the inaugural session, the chief guest, Dr. Saeed Elahi said that the present government is committed to provide basic health services to all. Recognizing the valuable role that Medical Technologists play in the health care delivery system, their service structure will be improved with opportunities for higher education and creation of posts. He vowed to fully support and assured commitment to solve the problems faced currently by Medical Technologists. The plenary lecture speakers included Mr. Usman Waheed, Technical Advisor GTZ Blood Transfusion Project, Dr. Nisar Ahmed (Haematologist) from Children Hospital, Lahore, Dr. Asim Mumtaz, Prof of Pathology, Shalimar Medical and Dental College Lahore and Dr. Saadat Ali from Punjab University.
Speaking at the concluding session, Dr. Ajmal Niazi and Professor Dr. Javed Akram praised the role of Medical Technologists as a back bone of healthcare team. They also emphasized on the need for strengthening the field of Medical Technology. Prof. Javed Akram offered full support from the Allama Iqbal Medical College platform. After the conference, the PAMLS Central Executive Committee (CEC) held a general body meeting and discussed the future plan of action. The meeting was attended by Tahir Malik, Aslam Hayat, Muhammad Shafi, Hasan Ejaz, Sheraz Younas, Yasir Cheema, Abu Bakar and Usman Waheed.