GUJRAT: Amidst the growing concerns at the illegal and unlicensed clinics being operated by non-qualified technicians for hair transplant procedures, the Hair Restoration Society of Pakistan (HRSP) and Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) are reportedly working to chalk out the by-laws.

This was stated by Dr Jawad Chaudhry, the secretary general of the HRSP, while speaking to Dawn here on Thursday.

Stressing steps to regulate hair transplant procedures in the country, he said introducing such by-laws might help the PHC and the HRSP have safer practices in Punjab.

“These regulations are aimed at safeguarding the patients and elevating the standards of hair transplant surgeries across the region.”

The rise in demand for hair transplant surgeries has unfortunately led to the surge in unlicensed clinics run by untrained individuals, often resulting in botched procedures and severe complications for patients, said Dr Chaudhry.

Recognising this alarming trend, the HRSP has been in continuous contact with the PHC since 2016, providing significant material and insights on how to control quackery and establish minimal standards for hair transplant surgery, he said and added that the key provisions of the proposed by-laws were that all clinics offering hair transplant services must obtain proper licences from the PHC.

Only licensed medical professionals with specialised training in hair restoration should be permitted to perform these surgeries whereas the clinics must adhere to stringent hygiene and safety standards which included maintaining a sterile environment, use of approved surgical instruments, ensuring the availability of emergency medical equipment.

Dr Jawad Chaudhry suggested that the clinics must provide comprehensive information to patients about the procedure, potential risks and expected outcomes while obtaining informed consent must be mandatory before any surgery whereas guidelines for post-operative care must be clearly communicated to patients. He said the clinics should be made responsible for providing follow-up consultations and addressing any complications that might arise.

Revealing other salient features of the proposed by-laws, the HRSP office-bearer said any adverse events or complication must be promptly reported to the PHC and clinics found violating these regulations should face severe penalties, including revocation of their licences and legal action.

The HRSP has already shared various case studies, expert opinions and data on best practices in hair transplant surgery with the PHC for the proposed by-laws to improve the standards of medical practice, Dr Jawad said and expressed hope that the introduction of these by-laws could mark a significant step towards eradicating quackery in the hair transplant sector of Punjab.

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2024