Saturday, 16th May 2026

Riphah International University successfully concluded the 9th International Conference on Patient Safety (ICPS 2026) through the Riphah Institute of Healthcare Improvement & Safety (RIHIS) at Shalamar Medical and Dental College. The two-day international conference brought together leading healthcare experts, policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals from Pakistan and abroad under the theme “Patient Safety from the Start.”

The conference served as a significant platform for discussing emerging healthcare challenges, patient-centered care, healthcare quality improvement, hospital accreditation, and evidence-based practices aimed at strengthening patient safety systems across Pakistan and the broader healthcare sector.

Addressing the closing ceremony as Guest of Honour, Muhammad Arshad Qaimkhani, CEO of the Sehat Sahulat Program, appreciated Riphah International University’s continued efforts in promoting a culture of patient safety and quality healthcare nationwide. He acknowledged the University’s focus on healthcare quality improvement, patient-centered care, and adherence to international healthcare standards, which have significantly contributed to raising awareness regarding safer healthcare systems in Pakistan.

Mr. Qaimkhani also shared that the Government is actively working on a comprehensive Medical Tourism Policy aimed at positioning Pakistan as a regional destination for quality and affordable healthcare services. He emphasized that strengthening hospital accreditation systems and improving healthcare standards are essential steps toward advancing medical tourism and fostering international healthcare collaborations.

Dr. Zakiuddin Ahmed, Chairman ICPS and Director of RIHIS, highlighted the remarkable growth of the patient safety movement in Pakistan, noting that it has evolved from a small initiative into a nationally recognized platform with active participation from both local and international healthcare professionals.

During the conference, Asadullah Khan, Executive Director of Riphah Healthcare Services (RHS), discussed the organization’s approach toward preventive healthcare and the integration of Lifestyle Medicine within clinical frameworks. He emphasized Riphah’s commitment to promoting lifestyle modifications as a key strategy for improving long-term health outcomes and reducing the burden of preventable diseases.

Several distinguished healthcare leaders and experts also addressed various sessions of the conference, including Shahid Hussain, Dr. Muhammad Jamsheed, Prof. Dr. Hafeez ur Rehman, Dr. Faiza Bashir, and Dr. Zahid Bashir.

The conference featured keynote addresses, technical sessions, panel discussions, poster presentations, and a specialized symposium on Medical Tourism and Hospital Accreditation. These sessions provided participants with opportunities to exchange knowledge, discuss global healthcare trends, and explore innovative strategies for improving healthcare quality and patient safety.

The event concluded with a collective call for the wider adoption of international accreditation standards, evidence-based healthcare practices, and collaborative healthcare improvement initiatives to strengthen patient safety systems across Pakistan. Patient Safety Champion Awards and commemorative shields were also presented to distinguished speakers, organizers, sponsors, and guests in recognition of their valuable contributions to healthcare quality and patient safety advancement.