ISLAMABAD: Shifa International Hospitals has made history by becoming the only hospital in the world to simultaneously succeed in achieving Joint Commission International (JCI) Clinical Care Programme Certification for both Acute Ischemic Stroke and Acute Coronary Syndrome Programmes, a distinction held by no other hospital globally.

“Only five other hospitals worldwide hold either of these two certifications individually. Shifa is the only hospital to achieve both simultaneously, placing it among an elite group of institutions at the forefront of clinical excellence in stroke and cardiac care,” hospital spokesperson said.

Achieving JCI accreditation means a healthcare organisation has met the highest global benchmarks for patient safety and care quality.

The certifications were awarded after JCI surveyors carried out detailed evaluations of both the programmes, reviewing the full journey of patient care; from emergency response and diagnosis to treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term management.

“The dual achievement highlights the strong teamwork across Shifa’s multidisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, quality teams, and support staff, who worked together to meet rigorous international standards,” the spokesperson said.

“Alhamdulillah, this is a proud and historic moment,” said Dr Zeeshan Bin Ishtiaque, Chief Executive of the hospital.

“It is the result of the dedication and collective effort of our entire team. We are deeply grateful to Almighty Allah for His blessings and guidance throughout this journey.”

Both certifications mark significant firsts for Pakistan. Shifa is now the first hospital in the country to earn JCI Clinical Care Programme Certification in Acute Ischemic Stroke as well as in Acute Coronary Syndrome.

Published in Dawn, June 24th, 2026