The directive was issued in response to a petition seeking standardized rates for laboratory tests and medical examinations across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The case was heard by a two-member PHC bench comprising Justice Fazal Subhan and Justice Farah Jamshed.
Representing the petitioner, Saifullah Mohib, Advocate Mehwish Mohibullah Kakakhel informed the court that there are currently no fixed fees for private medical practitioners in K-P. As a result, doctors charge exorbitant examination fees, while private laboratories impose unregulated rates for diagnostic tests, placing a heavy financial burden on patients.
She further argued that in the midst of rising inflation, people are struggling to make ends meet. She reminded the court that the PHC had ruled in both 2019 and 2023 that rates for tests conducted at both government and private laboratories should be fixed, with strict action taken against those engaging in overcharging. However, despite several years having passed, neither the government nor the Healthcare Commission has implemented these directives or taken action against violators.
Mehwish also told the court that despite previous orders to standardize rates within three months, the Health Department and Healthcare Commission have failed to do so. The K-P Healthcare Commission had earlier claimed that under Section 6 of the relevant Act, it lacked the legal authority to regulate pricing. It was further stated that a draft bill granting the Commission this authority was prepared in 2022, but it remains pending.