On the occasion of World Emergency Medicine Day on 27th May 2025, a meeting was held with Emergency Medicine (EM) residents and senior faculty. The event was graced by Dr. Abdus Salam Khan, both in person and through online participation.
This hybrid event, attended by many from across the country, lasted about an hour. Dr. Abdus Salam Khan began by thanking all participants and introduced his talk, which was divided into three parts:
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The Past – Reflecting on the journey of Emergency Medicine in Pakistan.
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The Present – Understanding the current landscape.
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The Future – Preparing for what lies ahead.
Throughout his talk, Dr. Khan emphasized the importance of learning from the past, staying engaged in the present, and being ready for the future. He urged everyone to continuously grow their knowledge to serve both the present and the generations to come.
Reflecting on the Past
The history of Emergency Medicine in Pakistan is one of persistent struggle and remarkable progress over the past two decades. What began with two institutions (Shifa International Hospital and Aga Khan University Hospital) has now expanded to all provinces with around 18 departments providing Emergency Medicine training under the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP).
The formal journey began in 2010 when CPSP approved Emergency Medicine as a recognized training discipline. Since then, numerous milestones have shaped the field:
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2009: Formation of SEPP (Society of Emergency Physicians of Pakistan)
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2010: CPSP approved Emergency Medicine as a training specialty
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2012: First Emergency Medicine training batch at Shifa International Hospital
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2014: First Intermediate Module Examination by CPSP
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2016: Formation of PSEM (Pakistan Society of Emergency Medicine)
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2018: First FCPS Part 2 Examination held
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2018: Launch of SAJEM (South Asian Journal of Emergency Medicine)
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2021: First PSEM elections
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2023: PSEM Newsletter launched
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2025: FCPS Part 2 Examination conducted in two centers in Pakistan
These milestones reflect the dedication, energy, and collective effort of individuals who advanced Emergency Medicine in Pakistan and attracted talented people to the field.
The Present
Today, Emergency Medicine in Pakistan has matured and is firmly recognized as a distinct medical discipline. While much work remains, the progress is undeniable.
Two primary training tracks are now available:
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FCPS Program: Conducted under CPSP
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MD Program: Offered in three institutions across Pakistan
In addition, various certification programs are being run in collaboration with universities and training centers, helping to strengthen the Emergency Medicine workforce. Entities supporting international certifications like MRCEM and FRCEM have also emerged, though Dr. Khan emphasized the need for proper, supervised training to make these certifications more meaningful within Pakistan’s context.
Looking ahead, there is potential to further integrate international training pathways with local programs, enhancing their structure and credibility.
The Future
While the future is inherently uncertain, Dr. Khan emphasized that by learning from the past and working diligently in the present, we can shape a brighter future.
Emergency Medicine in Pakistan is becoming more than just a specialty—it is evolving into a mindset and a lifestyle. It attracts individuals committed to helping patients in their most critical moments.
A key dynamic shaping the future is interdisciplinary teamwork: doctors, nurses, paramedics, radiology, lab personnel, and security staff working as cohesive units to improve patient outcomes.
Another essential skill is the ability to embrace uncertainty. Emergency professionals must make rapid decisions with limited information, often without a confirmed diagnosis, while still positively influencing patient care.
Dr. Khan highlighted the growing advocacy role of emergency physicians, especially for the most vulnerable—those who cannot speak for themselves, who have no regular doctor, or who simply don’t know where to go for help.
The future holds exciting possibilities:
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Greater use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS)
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Expansion of telemedicine and integration of artificial intelligence to support clinical decisions
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Stronger focus on disaster management and climate-related emergencies
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Deeper understanding of ethical and legal aspects of emergency care
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Enhanced global collaboration in Emergency Medicine, especially through innovations from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)
Words of Wisdom for Residents
Dr. Khan concluded his talk with heartfelt advice for all EM residents:
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Stay focused on your purpose: why you chose Emergency Medicine.
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Master your basics and keep learning.
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Stay calm, especially under pressure.
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Build strong teamwork—teamwork is the anchor in every emergency.
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Communicate effectively, both verbally and nonverbally.
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Maintain a lifelong learning attitude.
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Take care of yourself to prevent burnout—you are the most valuable part of your own journey.
These life lessons resonated deeply with both in-person and online participants, making them feel part of the ongoing story of Emergency Medicine’s growth in Pakistan.
Happy World Emergency Medicine Day to all!