The Gujarat health department has barred five hospitals and two doctors from participating in the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) and Maa Yojana following inspections that uncovered severe irregularities. The inspections were carried out by the State Anti-Fraud Unit (SAFU), in collaboration with expert doctors, from December 2 to December 8.
Allegations and Violations
Key findings from the investigations include:
- Tampered Lab Reports: Hir Hospital in Patan allegedly tampered with 91 lab reports and inflated neonatal care charges. The hospital, along with its on-duty doctor, Dr. Hiren Patel, and Health Spring 24 Pathology Laboratory, was ordered to refund ₹50.27 lakh.
- Missing Reports: Nishka Children’s Hospital in Patan failed to provide 60 lab reports. The hospital, its doctor Dr. Divyesh Shah, and Shiva Diagnostic Laboratory face penalties amounting to ₹15.16 lakh.
- Inadequate Facilities: Sonal Hospital in Dahod lacked proper manpower and infection control measures.
- Unauthorized Operations: Centara Orthopedic Hospital in Ahmedabad operated floors without permissions and lacked essential infrastructure like a modular operation theatre.
- Safety Lapses: Shri Jalaram Children’s Hospital in Aravalli operated with an expired fire safety certificate and a non-compliant NICU.
Past Incidents Raise Concerns
The action comes weeks after two patients died at Khyati Multi Speciality Hospital during angioplasty procedures under PMJAY. Allegations surfaced that villagers were brought for unnecessary angiographies to exploit health insurance, leading to two fatalities.
Government’s Response
Health officials emphasized zero tolerance for such inhumane practices. Since January 2024, 12 hospitals have been suspended for violating PMJAY guidelines.
The Gujarat government is also working on new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for treatment protocols, focusing on critical areas like cardiology, radiology, chemotherapy, and neonatal care to ensure compliance and safety.
Ongoing Audits
The SAFU is intensifying audits across the state, reviewing hospital records, and ensuring adherence to guidelines. Officials assured that strict actions would continue against those exploiting the health schemes.
