IHHN’s Pediatric Oncology Team Shines at POEM’s 4th Scientific Meeting in Jordan

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology team at Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) made a powerful impression at the 4th Scientific Meeting of the Pediatric Oncology East & Mediterranean Group (POEM) Regional Conference, held in Amman, Jordan from April 30 to 4, 2025. Themed “Harnessing Regional Strengths to Improve Equity, Access, and Quality Care,” the event brought together leading experts from across the region. IHHN’s delegation included six dedicated professionals, whose participation reflected the hospital’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality, equitable care to children across Pakistan.

Representing IHHN on international platforms, Dr. Syed Ahmer Hamid, Consultant Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, served as a session chair and contributed in his capacity as a Board Member and Executive Committee Member of the POEM Group. Dr. Muhammad Rafie Raza, also a Consultant in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and a member of the conference’s organizing committee, participated in the pre-conference workshop on Retinoblastoma held on April 30, 2025.

The meeting was also a moment of celebration for the team, as Dr. Sadia Imran, Head of the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Department, received first prize for her oral presentation on Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) induction-related mortality as a quality indicator in pediatric oncology units. Dr. Ghulam Qadir Pathan, Consultant Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, was awarded third prize for his oral presentation on the use of virtual bed management to enhance oncology services.

In addition, the conference recognized the contributions of nursing staff from IHHN. Bashir Ahmed Khan, Nurse Educator, was invited to present at the POEM-St. Jude 5th Research Workshop, where he discussed the implementation of virtual beds to support pediatric oncology bed management. Samsoon Sajan, staff nurse from IHHN Pediatric Oncology unit, also attended the pre-conference nursing workshop.

Muhammad Fawad Bin Rashid, Manager-Media & PR at IHHN, shared insights from the hospital’s journey in delivering zero-cost, holistic pediatric oncology services in Pakistan and building a scalable, impact-driven digital fundraising ecosystem. He presented IHHN’s comprehensive model of care, which includes advanced medical treatment, psychosocial support, education services, palliative care, and residential facilities—completely free of cost to patients and families. He emphasized how IHHN integrates patient-centered storytelling, influencer-led campaigns, and targeted digital strategies to raise awareness and mobilize funds. He shared the success of IHHN’s digital fundraising strategy—driven by storytelling, influencer engagement, and targeted campaigns—which led to a 17% increase in donations. The session highlighted challenges in digital readiness and brand visibility, while exploring future opportunities to scale impact through strategic partnerships and data-driven content.

Afifa Batool, Head of Marketing & Communication at Indus Hospital & Health Network, participated in a panel discussion on Risk Management and Brand Reputation for Nonprofits, hosted by ALSAC. Drawing from IHHN’s experience in the healthcare sector, she emphasized the critical role of proactive communication, trust-building, and strategic planning in managing brand reputation—especially in high-stakes, high-impact environments like nonprofit healthcare. The session highlighted how thoughtful messaging and transparency are essential to sustaining public confidence and organizational resilience.

The presence, recognition, and contributions of the IHHN team at POEM’s 4th Scientific Meeting not only reflect their individual achievements but also highlight the institution’s broader mission of advancing pediatric cancer care. Their engagement with global peers, participation in critical discussions, and presentation of impactful research signal IHHN’s growing role in shaping the future of pediatric oncology across the region. The knowledge, experience, and connections gained through this platform will further strengthen IHHN’s efforts in enhancing services and outcomes for young cancer patients in Pakistan.