Supreme Court orders former PM’s transfer to private hospital, directs formation of medical board

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered authorities to immediately transfer former Prime Minister Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad and directed the formation of a medical board to assess his health.

A three-member bench headed by Justice Shahid Waheed issued the order on Tuesday while hearing petitions filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary-General Salman Akram Raja and Khan’s sister, Uzma Khan. The court directed that Khan’s personal physician, Dr Faisal, and Uzma Khan should also be included in the medical board.

The court ordered that Khan’s detailed medical report be presented at the next hearing, scheduled for September 16.

What Does the Medical Report Say?

According to a medical report submitted to the Supreme Court by the superintendent of Adiala Jail, Khan has been experiencing severe symptoms of anxiety and nervousness, with his anxiety level described as “3 plus.”

The report said Khan was last examined by a medical board on August 10, 2026. The board included specialists in ophthalmology, cardiology and medicine.

Khan’s blood pressure was recorded at 140/80, while his pulse rate was 54 beats per minute. His ECG was reported as normal, while his chest, heart valves and chambers were also found to be normal.

Khan complained of a feeling of heaviness in his head and episodes of a rapid heartbeat. However, the report said he did not complain of chest pain, chest heaviness or shortness of breath.

The medical board recommended medication to control his blood pressure and anxiety, along with one hour of daily walking and activities aimed at promoting mental relaxation.

Doctors Recommend More Family Visits

The medical board also recommended providing Khan with newspapers, magazines, television and books for reading.

It recommended increasing the duration of visits with his family and wife, saying greater family interaction could help control his anxiety and blood pressure.

According to jail authorities, Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have regularly met every Tuesday under prison rules, with 84 meetings held so far.

What Is ‘Anxiety Level 3 Plus’?

Psychiatrist Dr Riyaz Bhatti said anxiety level 3 plus indicates a condition of severe anxiety and psychological distress.

He said prolonged isolation, limited social interaction and an unfavorable environment can worsen anxiety and may lead some people to experience frustration or depression.

According to the psychiatrist, appropriate social interaction, walking and exercise can help reduce anxiety symptoms, while treatment depends on an individual’s medical and psychological condition.

Medical Care in Jail

Jail authorities told the Supreme Court that medical staff check Khan’s food intake and health three times a day. He has also been examined by several government doctors and has received treatment from an eye specialist.

The report said the vision in one of Khan’s eyes has almost returned to normal.

Authorities also submitted details of medical examinations conducted by 39 different medical specialists between November 4, 2023 and August 10, 2026.

Supreme Court Orders Hospital Transfer

The Supreme Court’s order comes amid continuing concerns from Khan’s family and PTI leaders over his health and medical treatment in prison.

The court has ordered Khan to remain in hospital until the next hearing and directed the newly formed medical board to oversee his treatment and assess his condition.