PGMI Holds Workshop on Physician Well-Being, Urges Stronger Focus on Doctors’ Mental Health

Principal Prof. Dr. Muhammad Farooq Afzal says physicians’ well-being is essential for quality healthcare; psychologist Prof. Saad Malik warns of rising burnout among healthcare professionals.
By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE, July 3: The Postgraduate Medical Institute (PGMI) and Amiruddin Medical College (AMC) organized a workshop on “Physician Well-Being” under the Faculty Development Program 2026, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding doctors’ mental and physical health to strengthen Pakistan’s healthcare system.
Addressing the workshop, Principal of AMC and PGMI, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Farooq Afzal, said physicians’ well-being is the foundation of an effective healthcare system, directly influencing patient care, clinical decision-making, and overall hospital performance.
He stressed the need to foster a supportive, respectful, and positive workplace where healthcare professionals can perform confidently while maintaining good mental health. He added that doctors’ welfare is closely linked with quality healthcare, medical education, research excellence, and institutional reputation.
Renowned psychologist and Founder-President of Mind Organization, Prof. Saad Malik, described increasing mental stress and professional burnout among healthcare workers as one of the most pressing challenges facing the medical profession today. He shared practical strategies for building emotional resilience, managing stress, enhancing self-awareness, and maintaining psychological well-being.
Prof. Malik emphasized that physicians experiencing burnout may struggle to make safe and accurate clinical decisions, underscoring the importance of prioritizing mental health in the medical profession.
Workshop organizer Prof. Amina Ahsan Cheema said the Faculty Development Program aims to strengthen the professional skills of medical faculty, improve teaching standards, promote leadership aligned with modern healthcare practices, and enhance the overall well-being of faculty members.
The workshop featured interactive discussions on recognizing early signs of burnout, seeking timely support, and achieving a healthier work-life balance. Participants praised the practical guidance and motivational insights shared during the sessions.
The event was attended by senior faculty members and doctors, including MS LGH Prof. Dr. Faryad Hussain, Vice Principal Prof. Nudrat Sohail, Prof. Muhammad Shahid, Prof. Farah Shafie, Prof. Farhan Rashid, Prof. Nighat Haroon, Prof. Hassan Suleman Malik, Prof. Amina Khanam, Dr. Saira Zeeshan, Dr. Abdul Aziz, and representatives from various departments.
Speaking to the media after the workshop, Prof. Farooq Afzal reiterated that quality healthcare cannot be achieved unless physicians take care of their own mental and physical health. He urged healthcare professionals to recognize burnout symptoms early and help build a positive workplace culture at PGMI, AMC, and Lahore General Hospital.
The event concluded with Principal Prof. Dr. Muhammad Farooq Afzal presenting a commemorative shield to Prof. Saad Malik in recognition of his contribution to promoting physician well-being.