Combined Military Hospitals

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Combined Military Hospitals (CMH) are a network of military hospitals in Pakistan operated by the Pakistan Armed Forces. These hospitals are located in various cantonments and military bases across the country and provide healthcare services to military personnel, their families, and civilians. The CMHs are part of the Army Medical Corps, which is responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of all military personnel.

History

The history of Combined Military Hospitals goes back to the British colonial period when the British Indian Army established military hospitals to cater to the healthcare needs of its soldiers. After the partition of India in 1947, these facilities were inherited by the newly formed Pakistan Army. Over the years, the network of CMHs has expanded significantly, playing a crucial role in providing medical services not only to military personnel but also to civilians, especially in times of emergency and natural disasters.

Structure

Each CMH is a fully equipped hospital that offers a wide range of medical services including general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, dentistry, and psychiatry, among others. Some of the larger CMHs also have specialized centers for cardiology, neurology, and oncology. The hospitals are staffed by military doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who are part of the Army Medical Corps. The senior-most doctor in a CMH typically holds the rank of Brigadier and is referred to as the Commandant.

Notable CMHs

Some of the most prominent CMHs in Pakistan include:

• CMH Lahore, located in Lahore Cantonment, is one of the largest and most well-equipped military hospitals in the country.
• CMH Rawalpindi, situated in Rawalpindi Cantonment, serves as a premier medical facility not only for military personnel but also for VVIPs including the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan.
• CMH Karachi provides comprehensive medical services to military personnel stationed in the southern part of the country.

Role in Civilian Healthcare

While the primary mandate of CMHs is to provide healthcare services to military personnel and their families, they also play a significant role in civilian healthcare. In times of national emergencies, natural disasters, or epidemics, CMHs often open their doors to civilians, providing critical medical services. Additionally, CMHs contribute to the national healthcare system by participating in public health campaigns, medical research, and training of healthcare professionals.

Training and Research

CMHs are involved in the training and professional development of medical officers and other healthcare professionals. Many CMHs are affiliated with military and civilian medical colleges, offering postgraduate training programs in various medical specialties. These hospitals also conduct medical research, contributing to advancements in military medicine and healthcare in general.

Challenges

Despite their significant contributions, CMHs face challenges such as resource constraints, particularly in remote areas, and the need for continuous upgrading of medical technology and facilities. Moreover, balancing the healthcare needs of military personnel with those of civilians, especially during emergencies, poses an ongoing challenge.

Conclusion

Combined Military Hospitals are a vital component of Pakistan's healthcare system, providing essential medical services to military personnel and civilians alike. Their role extends beyond healthcare delivery to include medical training and research, contributing to the overall improvement of healthcare standards in the country.

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