KARACHI: PNS Shifa Hospital has achieved a significant academic milestone after being approved as an official examination centre for the MRCP (UK) PACES Part 2 Clinical Examination in November 2024. The internationally recognised assessment, conducted on behalf of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom, evaluates the essential clinical competencies required of physicians worldwide.
The approval followed a comprehensive MRCP PACES (UK) Pathfinder Mock Clinical Examination held at PNS Shifa Hospital in January 2025. The exercise, led by senior leadership and specialist faculty, assessed the hospital’s examination infrastructure, examiner readiness, availability of standardised patients, and overall logistical arrangements. The successful completion of the process confirmed that the hospital met the stringent international standards required to host the examination.
Hospital administration termed the designation as a matter of pride, stating that it reflects the institution’s commitment to advancing medical education and providing high-quality training opportunities for healthcare professionals. The administration also expressed its intent to continue collaboration with the Royal Colleges of Physicians in the United Kingdom.
Several faculty members from PNS Shifa Hospital have also been certified as MRCP PACES (UK) examiners, further strengthening the institution’s capacity for advanced clinical training and assessment.
The first official MRCP PACES (UK) examination at the hospital was conducted from December 12 to 14, 2025, in which 47 candidates appeared. Participants appreciated the examination environment and overall arrangements.
The hospital was declared among the top centres globally for hosting its inaugural MRCP PACES (UK) examination in a highly professional manner. The achievement was acknowledged by Dr Tanzeem H. Raza, International Medical Director PACES and Chair of Examiners, along with Dr Peter Newman, Co-Chair. Another senior examiner, Dr Elizabeth, recommended that new centres send their teams to PNS Shifa for training purposes.
Commandant PNS Shifa Hospital, Surgeon Commodore Fowad Khurshid Imami, appreciated the efforts of Surgeon Commander Ehtesham Haider, Host Examiner, Deputy Commandant and Head of Department Medicine, as well as all departments and staff involved in achieving this milestone.
Officials said the achievement reflects the hospital’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education and marks a proud moment for the institution. With this recognition, PNS Shifa Hospital has further strengthened its position as a leading centre for clinical examinations in Pakistan, promoting high standards in medical training and professional development.
