Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital Murree is the principal public sector healthcare facility catering to the residents of Murree and its surrounding hilly areas. Strategically located in the scenic hill station of Murree, Punjab, Pakistan, the hospital plays a pivotal role in delivering essential medical services, particularly during peak tourist seasons and harsh winters when accessibility to other urban hospitals can be challenging.
📍 Location & Importance
The hospital is situated on Cart Road, Murree, providing easy access to both local residents and the large number of tourists visiting the area year-round. As the largest secondary care facility in the tehsil, it bridges the gap between basic rural healthcare centers and tertiary hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
🏥 Facilities & Services
THQ Hospital Murree has gradually expanded its range of services to meet the growing demands of the region:
- 24/7 Emergency Department for trauma, cardiac events, and seasonal emergencies
- General OPD (Outpatient Department) covering internal medicine, general surgery, and pediatrics
- Maternal and Child Health services including antenatal care and labor rooms
- Basic laboratory and diagnostic imaging (X-ray, ultrasound)
- Minor surgical procedures and treatment for common injuries and fractures
- Pharmacy services to ensure availability of essential medicines
👨⚕️ Medical & Support Staff
The hospital is staffed with medical officers, specialist doctors in key departments, nurses, lab technicians, and administrative personnel. While advanced specialties are generally referred to larger hospitals in Rawalpindi, the hospital aims to handle a wide range of medical issues locally, especially those arising from the unique climate and geography of Murree.
📈 Role During Tourist Season
Murree’s population dramatically increases during the summer and winter tourist seasons. The hospital often manages a surge in patients related to road accidents, respiratory illnesses due to cold weather, and altitude sickness. The administration coordinates closely with local authorities to ensure preparedness during such times.
🚑 Emergency Preparedness
Due to Murree’s snowfall and occasional road blockages, THQ Hospital serves as the first and sometimes only accessible emergency facility. The hospital keeps standby generators, maintains blood storage, and collaborates with Rescue 1122 for patient transfers to tertiary care if required.
🏗️ Recent Developments
In recent years, there have been efforts to improve infrastructure, add diagnostic equipment, and recruit additional staff to enhance patient care. Such upgrades are vital to cope with Murree’s growing healthcare demands.
📊 Challenges & Future Plans
Despite its importance, THQ Hospital Murree faces challenges such as limited specialized services, staffing gaps, and high patient-to-doctor ratios during tourist seasons. Future plans focus on:
- Adding specialist clinics in cardiology and orthopedics
- Enhancing telemedicine links with major hospitals
- Expanding emergency response capacity during natural calamities
❓ FAQs About Tehsil Headquarters Hospital Murree
Where exactly is THQ Hospital Murree located?
It is located on Cart Road, Murree, Punjab, Pakistan, near the main town center and easily accessible from all major roads.
Does the hospital provide 24-hour emergency services?
Yes, THQ Hospital Murree operates a 24/7 emergency department handling medical emergencies, trauma, and seasonal issues.
Can tourists and non-residents also get treatment?
Absolutely. The hospital treats all patients, including tourists and visitors, especially during busy holiday seasons.
Are specialist doctors available at the hospital?
The hospital generally has specialists in general medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, and surgery. Complex cases are referred to tertiary care centers in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Does THQ Hospital Murree handle maternity services?
Yes, it provides antenatal care, labor rooms, and postnatal support as part of its Maternal and Child Health program.
Is there a pharmacy inside the hospital?
Yes, an on-site pharmacy dispenses essential medicines to inpatients and outpatients.
How does the hospital prepare for the winter tourist rush?
The hospital increases staff availability, stocks essential medicines, and coordinates with emergency services to manage the higher patient influx during peak winter.
Is parking available for patients and visitors?
Limited parking is available near the hospital, but space can be tight during peak tourist periods.
✅ Conclusion
Tehsil Headquarters Hospital Murree is more than a routine healthcare facility; it is a critical lifeline for residents and the millions of tourists who visit the area every year. With ongoing upgrades and dedicated staff, the hospital strives to offer accessible and timely medical care in one of Pakistan’s most popular hill stations.