Overview & Origins
- Name: United Christian Hospital (Lahore), a 250-bed, non-profit Christian hospital affiliated with the Church of Pakistan.
- Location: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
- Founding: Established on 1 January 1948, originally a refugee camp converted into a permanent hospital. Initially planned as a 115-bed facility under Prof. Carter Speers.
📜 Historical Milestones
- Early Expansion (1950s–60s): Departments established in surgery, OB-GYN, pediatrics, ophthalmology, and orthopedics. In 1964, UCH moved into a new 250-bed facility.
- Medical Firsts: Pakistan’s first open-heart surgery was performed here in 1964 (some sources cite 1966) by Dr. Donald E. Bowes.
⚒️ Facilities & Services
Core Departments:
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Orthopedics
- General Medicine & Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Ophthalmology
- Other general specialties
Diagnostic Upgrades:
- Digital X-ray and computerized radiography installed.
- Planned improvements include laboratory modernization, ICU/CCU, dialysis, dental, neonatal, and emergency departments.
🤝 Community Role & Outreach
- Inclusive Care: Treats patients regardless of religion, with a focus on underserved Christian communities and broader Lahore population (~100,000 patients annually).
- Training Programs: A nursing school was established in 1949; also trains laboratory and X-ray technicians.
🏚️ Challenges & Decline
- Decline Factors: Mismanagement, insufficient funding, aging infrastructure, and outdated equipment led to closure of various departments and operating theatres.
- Judicial Attention: In 2018, the Chief Justice of Pakistan ordered the Punjab government to revive UCH within six weeks due to reported under-staffing and non-functional services.
🔧 Governance & Reforms
- Administrative Oversight: In October 2024, board resolved to verify executive qualifications, appoint a CFO, conduct audits, update policy manuals, and create a grievance committee.
- Funding Gaps: UCH requested Rs 400–500 million for restoration but received only Rs 5.65 million, leading to budget cuts, staff layoffs, and asset leasing for sustainability.
🌱 Current & Future Plans
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Installation of digital imaging; plans to establish ICU, dialysis unit, dental, neonatal, and emergency services.
- Service Expansion: Focus on enhancing general surgery, pediatrics, and community outreach while expanding diagnostic facilities.
- Community Partnerships: Continuing reliance on volunteer support and donations to sustain healthcare delivery.
✅ Summary
United Christian Hospital (UCH) Lahore is a historical and philanthropic healthcare institution founded in 1948. It made medical history by performing Pakistan’s first open-heart surgery and served as a pioneer in nursing and technical training.
Despite its past prominence, UCH faced operational decline due to years of neglect and financial stress. Recent judicial and administrative interventions aim to restore its infrastructure and services. With committed leadership and a clear roadmap for modernization,
UCH is working to reclaim its status as a vital healthcare provider for the people of Lahore.
FAQs about United Christian Hospital (UCH), Lahore
What is United Christian Hospital?
United Christian Hospital (UCH) is a 200–250‑bed non‑profit, Christian-affiliated general hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. It provides charitable, patient-centered healthcare services to the community
Where is UCH located?
UCH is situated on Main Boulevard, Gulberg III, near the Institute of Aviation and Technology, Gulberg, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan .
What services and departments are available?
The hospital offers a wide range of services including general surgery, obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics, ophthalmology, orthopedics, dermatology, pulmonology, diabetes care, emergency & accident department, radiology, and clinical labs. It has modern diagnostic equipment like digital X‑ray and computerized radiography :.
What facilities does UCH offer?
Facilities include emergency care (24/7), critical-care monitoring, digital radiology, diagnostic labs, and an associated nursing school. Upcoming plans include establishing an ICU/CCU, dialysis and dental services :.
What are the visiting hours?
Visiting hours are from 9 AM–12 PM and 7 PM–10 PM. Children under 10 may visit for limited duration, and ICU visits are restricted to immediate family and managed by ICU staff
Is emergency service available?
Yes, the Accident & Emergency Department operates around the clock, with doctors and nurses monitoring critical patients 24/7
How do I get admitted or discharged?
To be admitted, patients should present their CNIC, referral (if applicable), and complete admission forms. Upon consultant sign‑off, a discharge summary is issued and forwarded to billing
How can I contact UCH?
You can reach UCH at +92 42 35763654 or 042‑32591427, or via email at info@unitedchristianhospitallahore.org. The full postal address is Main Boulevard, Gulberg III, Lahore 54000
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be made by calling between 9 AM and 11 PM or through the hospital’s official website
Is there a partnership with Shaukat Khanum?
UCH hosts a Shaukat Khanum diagnostic centre offering MRI, CT, X‑ray, mammography, ultrasounds, and specialized clinics. Revenue from this partnership supports UCH’s infrastructure development